Billy Ray Hudson, Sr, 84, of Mesa, AZ passed away on September 18, 2026 peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones.
Born March 4, 1942 in Raymondville, TX, Billy was the son of Delbert & Bertie Hudson. He grew up in TX, AR, OK & CO as the family moved around as home mission church builders. Billy served in the US Air Force from 1961-1965. He trained as a crypto operator at Sheppard AFB, Texas before transferring to Germany. He also started a home missions church in Ponca City, OK and later pastored in Stillwater, OK with the United Pentecostal Church International, and retired as a letter carrier from the US Postal Service, where he worked 31 years.
On [July 9, 1966], Billy married Linda Smith in Oklahoma City, OK and Together, they had three great children.
He is survived by his three children; Gayla Hudson Kjellin (Leo), Billy Ray Hudson Jr, and Shane Hudson (Kim). He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren: Felicia, Ashley, Brandon (Crystal), Kyle, Ethan, Jocelyn, Billy III, Shayla, Craig, Kara, Nicole (Steven), Katelyn (Andrew). 13 great grandchildren: Madison, Emberlie, Arielle, Emilee, Elizabeth, Kaylee, Kayson, Blair, Olives, Dante, Asher, Elijah, and Wendy and numerous nieces, nephews, and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, Delbert & Bertie Hudson, his siblings, Laverne Hudson Guffey and Tommy Hudson, and his sweet granddaughter, Aurora Hudson.
A service will be held on October 1st at 11 AM at Mountain View Cemetery on 7900 E Main St. Gravesite remarks will be immediately after.
Flowers can be sent to Mountain View Cemetery. The family thanks all the friends, loved ones, Banner Desert and Hospice of the Valley staff.
Celebrating 75 years of serving our community