Jerry Lane Hudson

With heavy hearts and deep love, we share the passing of Jerry Lane Hudson, age 77, of Moberly, Missouri. Jerry left this world on April 24, 2026, at the Harry S Truman VA Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on November 7, 1948, in Macon, Missouri, Jerry was the son of William and Rozene Hudson. He grew up alongside his siblings William (Pat) Hudson, Charles Hudson, Leroy (Gertie) Hudson, Ruth Guffy, Shirley Anders, and Maxine Stamp. He attended Macon High School, MACC, and Truman College, where he earned his degree in Criminology—an accomplishment he was deeply proud of.

Jerry served his country with courage and honor in the US Army Infantry during the Vietnam War. His bravery earned him numerous distinctions, including the National Service Medal, Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal, two Bronze Stars, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device. His service shaped him, and he carried that strength and resilience throughout his life. After returning home, Jerry dedicated many years to the Moberly Corrections Center, where he applied his knowledge and steady presence to his work.

Jerry’s greatest joy in life was his family. He shared a beautiful marriage with his beloved wife, Maebelle Hudson, the love of his life and his constant companion. He was a proud father to Shane Hudson, Jana (and her husband Richard Ham), Sonia Curtis, and Jake Carpenter. Jerry was a devoted grandfather to Serenity Tebow, Cassidy Curtis, Landon Carpenter, Aly Ham, Brooke Carpenter, Kylie Curtis, and Laura Cherry, and he cherished his role as great‑grandfather to little Oaklyen Mae Curtis.

A longtime member of the Eastern Star and Cairo Masonic Lodge, Jerry found community, purpose, and lifelong friendships among his fellow Masons. He valued connection, camaraderie, and the chance to support others.

Jerry also had a deep love for Missouri sports. He was a loyal Kansas City Chiefs fan, a proud supporter of the St. Louis Cardinals, and he cheered passionately for the Missouri Tigers. Whether it was football Sundays, summer baseball games, or college sports excitement, Jerry enjoyed every moment spent rooting for his teams.

Jerry is survived by his wife Maebelle, his sisters Shirley and Maxine, his children, grandchildren, great‑grandchild and other family members . He is preceded in death by his parents William and Rozene Hudson; his siblings William (Pat) Hudson, Charles Hudson, Leroy (Gertie) Hudson; and his sister Ruth Guffy.

A funeral service honoring Jerry’s life will be held on Thursday, May 7th at 12:00 pm at the Cairo Masonic Lodge, followed by military honors and burial at Jacksonville Veterans Cemetery.

Jerry loved deeply and lived with a full heart. He was known for his big personality, his humor, and the way he could light up a room. He was a loyal friend, a man of character, and someone who made others feel seen and valued. Above all, Jerry adored his wife Maebelle and treasured every moment with his family.

Those who knew him will forever remember his laughter, his stories, his strength, and the way he loved—with his whole heart. Forever cheering on the Chiefs, the Cardinals, the Missouri Tigers, and the family he loved with all his heart.

If desired, memorial contributions can be made to the following:

Missouri State Veterans Cemetery, 1479 County Road 1675, Jacksonville, MO, 65260 

Cairo Masonic Lodge, 206 W Martin Street, Cairo, MO, 65239