Samuel Oakley Hudgens

Samuel Oakley Hudgens, 90, passed away on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at 1:53 pm at The Waterford in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. Sam was born April 7, 1927 in Goreville the son of Daniel B. and Alice (Martin) Hudgens.  He married Betty Lou Hubbard on August 10, 1951 in Marion and together they were blessed to share over 62 years of marriage. Betty preceded him in death on May 27, 2014. He served in the Navy during WWII proudly answering the call to serve his country. Sam had a 35-year career as a clerk with the Union Pacific Railroad.  He was a member of Marion Third Baptist Church and his faith in God was sincere and practical, carrying him through many times of trial.  He enjoyed bowling, golfing and reading Louis L’Amour westerns. He was a carpenter, plumber, and electrician as well as the baker of the best peanut butter cake this side of paradise. He was a kind and jovial presence, thoughtful of others, and quick to serve; a beloved brother, uncle, cousin, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be greatly missed. Survivors include his; Two children; Ric Hudgens of Evanston Jolene McClellan and husband Mike of Nekoosa, Wisconsin Five grandchildren; Kayla Reigel and husband Andy of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin Ben McClellan and wife Emily of Dayton, Minnesota Nakita VanKirk and husband Chris of Greenville, South Carolina Rachel Hudgens of Evanston Samuel Hudgens of Evanston Twelve great-grandchildren; Elise, Evan, Aaliyah, Lucas, Hailey, Brinley, Caitlyn, Alexis, Zoe, Megan, Jesse, Tristan Preceded in death by his Parents, brothers Roscoe, Robert Dean, Bill, John, and Ray; and sisters Delia, Helen, Angie, and Lorraine. Funeral services will be Saturday, February 24, 2018 at 11 am at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home with his son, Rev. Ric Hudgens officiating. Burial will follow in Fountain Cemetery.  Visitation will be Saturday from 10 am until the time of service at the funeral home. For those who prefer memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice of Stevens Point, 3233 Business Park Dr #203, Stevens Point, WI 54482. Envelopes will be available and accepted at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home, 800 North Market Street, Marion, Illinois  62959. Or a donation in tribute may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org.