Jennifer L. Hudson

Jennifer Lee Hudson, 59, of Gainesville, FL passed away peacefully on February 10, 2025, after a lengthy battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, surrounded by loved ones.

Jennifer was born on June 23, 1965, in Gainesville, FL to John Evans Hudson Jr. and Caroline Steckert Hudson. A proud Gainesville native and third-generation Gainesvillian, she graduated from Gainesville High School in 1983, where she was an active member of NJROTC for two years.

From an early age, Jennifer was deeply involved in Girl Scouts, a passion that remained central to her life. She spent many summers at Camp Kateri, camping, canoeing, swimming and singing Girl Scout songs with Troop 300. She earned the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award in 1983. As an adult, she dedicated much of her life to giving back as a Girl Scout Troop leader, first with her sister and later with her daughters and nieces. Her most recent Troop 315, including her three nieces, all of whom began their Girl Scout journeys under her leadership.

Jennifer was also an avid Gator fan, a lover of good books and most of all a devoted wife, daughter, mother, sister, aunt and friend who cherished her family and community with all her heart.

Jen is preceded by her father and stepmother, John and Linda Hudson; maternal grandparents, William H., and Mildred (Polly) Steckert; and her paternal grandparents, John Evans and Frances S. Hudson Sr.

Jennifer is survived by her loving wife of 24 years, Deirdre Branum Hudson; her mother and stepfather, Caroline and Stanley Livengood; her spoiled 4-legged felines, Tucker and Toby Hudson; her brothers, Jay (Amy) Hudson and Andy (Katie) Hudson, sister Elizabeth (Matt) Meadows; her four children; many beloved nieces and nephews; and a host of extended family and dear friends.                                                                                              

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the BMTU team at UF Health Shands Cancer Center, as well as all of Jennifer’s doctors, nurses, and PCA’s, who provided her with exceptional care and friendship throughout her journey.

A celebration of Jennifer’s life will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM at The Alachua Woman’s Club, 14565 Main Street, Alachua, FL. 32615. Please Park on the street in front or in the city lot across from Alachua Feed and Lumber.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jennifer’s memory to The Girl Scouts Gateway Council, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, or by donating a book in her honor to Friends of the Library.