Charles Nelson Hudson, age 78, passed away on January 24, 2024, in Fayetteville, Arkansas with his daughter and granddaughter holding his hands so he could go peacefully, knowing he was loved. Charles was born on March 27, 1945, in Peoria, Illinois to the late Norma Anita Jones and Albert "O'rdell" Jones. He honorably served in the US Air Force as a combat veteran in the Vietnam War. His dedication to his country remained steadfast, evident in his lifelong membership of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Charles was also a proud Honor Guard member. He served as President of VFW in Naples, Florida and left a lasting mark on his fellow veterans. He also was a member of American Legion, The Masonic Society, and multiple motorcycle military groups.

Beyond his military service, Charles's passion for community bloomed brightly. He dedicated himself to making the lives of others better while serving as an advisor and counsel member for Aging Best. His warmth and wisdom radiated through the Senior Center in Camdenton, Missouri, where he remained an active council member. For over 30 years, Charles helped organize and participated with a large group of veterans and civilians, gathering toys in various states children in need. He would distribute the toys to children with illness in different hospitals all year long. Charles also participated in the Make-A-Wish Foundation helping his grandson have a great wish granted. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Shawna Michelle Hudson; granddaughter, Siearra Nicole Stanford and two sisters, Connie Lee Jones and Cathy Ross.

Charles is survived by two daughters, Tawnya Hudson of Arkansas and Ronda Stanford of Texas; two grandchildren, Jennifer Chantel Hudson along with her fiancé Denzel Thomas and Justin Tyler Hudson all of Arkansas; great granddaughter, Aviana Thomas; brothers Charlie "Sonny" Snowder and Bob Hudson along with a host of extended family and friends. Family members are still being found through the DNA technology in use today.

Inurnment will be 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at the Fayetteville National Cemetery with military honors. His final wish is to have some of his ashes taken to the Vietnam Wall in Washington to be with his comrades. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Heritage Funeral Home in Springdale, Arkansas.