James Ashley Hudson, Jr.

James Ashley Hudson Jr., 79, of Port Orange, Florida, passed away at home on February 25, 2026. Born on January 28, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, Jim graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago and earned an MBA from Florida International University. He went on to a fulfilling career as a Florida public school teacher. Known for his kindness and authenticity, Jim left a lasting impression on the countless middle and high school students he mentored and the colleagues he worked alongside.

Outside of the classroom, Jim was a devoted husband and father who took great pride in supporting both of his children through their graduate studies. He was a true partner to his wife, Marilyn, with whom he would have celebrated 50 years of marriage this year. Over the decades, their journey took them from Chicago to Miami before they eventually settled in East Central Florida.

Music was Jim’s lifelong passion. Whether plugged into an amp or playing acoustically, he was a gifted guitar player — a hobby that began in his early days leading a college rock band. Jim also loved blues music and wailing on his blues harp. His music collection spanned decades and genres. If there’s a rock and roll heaven, he earned a place there.

Despite his love for music, he often said his fondest memories were spent in Wisconsin and Illinois, visiting with family and friends during the summer. You could always find his nose in a book. He also had an appetite for fishing which he got from his dad and passed down to his son. In recent years, nothing brought him more joy than his four grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Ruth Hudson (née Duske) and James Hudson Sr., and his brother, David Hudson, of Gainesville, Florida. He is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn Gandt-Hudson, of Port Orange; his children, Claire Saracen (and husband, Paul) and Sam Hudson (and wife, Kimberly); his four cherished grandchildren; his sister in law, Gretchen Gandt; his niece, Lisa Hudson Baker; his nephew, Josh Hudson; and other family members and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Baldwin Brothers in Port Orange, followed by a Celebration of Life gathering at Cypress Head Golf Course. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Northern Sky Theater in Door County, Wisconsin (https://northernskytheater.com/support/).

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