Albert Levator Hudson was born on December 2, 1944, to Albert Hudson and Mary Ella Norsworthy Hudson in Winona, MS. Albert was raised in Wynne, AR with values rooted in compassion and hard work. As high school valedictorian, Albert went on to study Chemistry at Arkansas A&M Normal College, now known as the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff where he met and married his beloved wife, Dorothy Rene Nash of Texarkana, AR. They relocated the family to the Chicago area, where he worked as a research chemist for Chicago Bridge and Iron Company.
But God had another path for his life. Albert found his passion educating countless future generations as a teacher, and later as an administrator for the Chicago Public Schools for almost 40 years. During that time, Albert earned postgraduate degrees in both Educational Leadership and Counseling. On any given evening, he could be found advocating and supporting his "boys" as they navigated the challenges of growing up in the big city of Chicago.
Albert was also a successful realtor and, along with Dorothy, he sought to provide quality affordable housing in the community. He lived a life marked by quiet strength, integrity, and kindness. Anyone around him was uplifted by his steady presence and generous spirit. Albert was known for his unwavering work ethic and his commitment to excellence in all he did. But beyond his professional life, he will be most remembered for the roles he cherished most-father, uncle, mentor, papa, and friend.
Affectionately known to his nieces and nephews as Uncle Sonny, he had an extraordinary way of making people feel seen and valued. He listened more than he spoke, and when he spoke, his words carried wisdom, warmth, and sometimes the perfect bit of humor to lift the moment. Whether it was a helping hand to a neighbor or thoughtful advice to his family and students, his legacy is one of service, sincerity, and love.
On June 8, 2025, Our Lord called him home to sing in that Heavenly choir with his parents, and three of his sisters, Essie Peeples, Hattie Mae Nash, and Kate Harris.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Dorothy Nash Hudson, sister Emma Smith, and brother James (Doris) Hudson, both of Carson, CA.; children Terry (Trudy) Gaines, Chicago, IL, Regina (Juan) Lenoir, Texarkana, TX, and Michael Hudson, Little Rock, AR.; grandchildren Lena Lenoir, Reina Lenoir, Gary Gaines, and Brittney Gaines, great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will carry forward the light of his love and the lessons of his life.
Albert L. Hudson's presence was a gift to all who knew him, and his absence leaves a space that cannot be filled. May we honor his memory by living with the same humility, grace, and quiet courage that he exemplified every day.