David Rex Hudson

David Rex Hudson, 77, of Sylva, North Carolina, passed away Sunday, March 18, 2018. A celebration of life service will be held at St. John's Episcopal Church, Church Street in Sylva, at 11 am, Wednesday, March 21st. The Reverend Patty Curtis will be officiating. Dave was born November 24, 1940, in Burlington, North Carolina, to Cassius Rex and Edith Hudson. He graduated from Graham High School in 1959 and from North Carolina State University in 1963 with a degree in Forest Management. Upon graduation, Dave was appointed District Forester in Rocky Mount, and then in Shelby, both in North Carolina. As a result of excellent work, he was promoted to District Forester for the eight Western Counties of North Carolina where he fell in love with the Blue Ridge Mountains. He also served six years in service to his country in the National Guard. He retired after 30 years in Forestry, and spent his retirement growing Christmas trees, playing bridge, gardening, reading, and watching sports. Dave is survived by his wife of 38 years, Ann Hooper Hudson, of Sylva North Carolina, a son, Rex Hudson and his wife, Tracy, of Burlington North Carolina and their children, David and Anna; a daughter, Mary Rattray and her husband, Richard, of Graham, North Carolina; a sister, Scottie Hudson; a brother, Robert Hudson, and many cousins. Dave will be remembered by all for his excellent work in the Forestry Service, his love of Nature and animals, his gentle humor and patience, but mainly for the love he shared with his wife Ann. Dave was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and a friend to all.