Gwendolyn Jeanne Hudson

September 21, 1939 – October 10, 2025

God, thank you for loaning us an angel!

Gwendolyn "Gwen" Jeanne Hudson (née Gibson) was born on September 21, 1939, in Homewood, Illinois, and passed away peacefully at her home on October 10, 2025, with her husband, Rich, by her side.

Gwen met Rich in college, and they married on August 18, 1962. Shortly after, they moved to Washington State and made their home in the Tri-Cities, where they raised their five children and built a lifetime of love and laughter.

A lifelong educator, Gwen taught elementary grades in the Kennewick School District. She also spent an incredible year teaching abroad in Australia through a teacher exchange program — an experience she treasured deeply. Gwen was a passionate, caring teacher who saw the potential in every student and never forgot a face or a name. Even decades later, she would run into former second graders and recall them instantly — a testament to her remarkable memory and genuine heart for others.

Beyond teaching, Gwen lived with joy and purpose. She loved cooking for her family, knitting for the grandkids, and organizing "Cousins Camp," where laughter and love filled every moment. Her happiest place was outdoors sitting by a campfire, relaxing at the cabin, or simply soaking up the beauty of nature. She and Rich shared a deep love of travel and adventure, exploring breathtaking places together and creating memories that will be cherished forever. She never met a stranger — if you walked through her door, whether it was her home or her classroom, you were treated with warmth, respect, and an open heart. Everyone was welcome.

Gwen was known for her positivity and her unshakable belief in others. Even after Parkinson's tried to dampen her spirit, she remained optimistic and full of light. In the 80s, she became known for handing out "Yes I Can" buttons and pencils to her kids, their friends, and her students — a simple, powerful message she embodied every single day.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Richard Hudson; children Richard (Lynda), Kirk (Andrea), Alaine (Tom), Scott (Thuy), and Jenny; grandchildren Alyssa (Daniel), Justin, Ryan, Troy, Nicole, Taylor, Lauren, Hailey, Jennifer, Easton (Molly), Cole, Reagan, and Jack; great-grandson Bennett Hein; brother Bill Gibson (Kay); and sister-in-law Marianne Hudson.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Julean, Gwen's dedicated caregiver, for her kindness and care, and for being her favorite card playing opponent. And to Dr. Tornabene and Dr. Horan for their compassion and support through her lengthy illnesses.

Gwen will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and her lifelong message: "Yes I Can."

We invite you to join us in celebrating Gwen's life at The REACH Museum on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The celebration will take place from 1:00–4:00 PM, with a service at 2:00 PM, as we share memories, stories, and the love she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Gwen's name to Wenatchee Clinic expansion and Science Education Science Education Department - Seattle Children's or Donate to Seattle Children's.

Wenatchee Clinic expansion and Science Education:

https://www.seattlechildrens.org/research/centers-programs/science-education-department or

https://give.seattlechildrens.org/give/284150/#!/donation/checkout