Longtime teacher and wellknown member of the Citrus County community, “Doc” Hudson has passed away. Doc’s positive influence touched countless lives.
Shuffling through the old black and white pictures only tells part of the story. James Franklin “Doc” Hudson Sr. is a bit of a legend. He was a fixture in Crystal River for many years.
“It is amazing just how many people know him and how many people you know loved him,” Doc’s son, Frank Hudson said.
He passed away at home. He was about to turn 91 years old. His son Frank said he’ll miss his dad.
“He was an important part of my life. He was somebody I could always talk to and ask his opinion,” Frank said.
Hudson worked at Crystal River High School for about 17 years in the 40’s and 50’s as a teacher and principal. He graduated from Crystal River in 1940.
“I would have probably quit school if it hadn’t been for Doc,” former student Joe Brown said.
Brown said everyone respected Doc so everyone did their best.
“We knew we didn’t want to disappoint Doc,” Brown said.
“He connected with kids and he loved kids so that was a big part of his life,” Frank said.
In the late 40’s Hudson coached the school’s football team to a state championship. Brown said Hudson continued to be a mentor to a lot of his students up until the end.
“All of us local boys looked up to Doc,” Brown said.
Hudson’s death was a big loss for a community that looked up to him for a very long time.
Hudson also taught school in south Florida for about 25 years. He returned to Crystal River in the 80’s and got very involved in local history.
Doc Hudson's visitation will be Friday from 6-8 p.m. at Strickland Funeral Home. Graveside services will be on Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Old Crystal River City Cementary.