Services for Big Sonny Hudson, 72, of Sullivan, Missouri were at 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 9, 2016 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan with burial to follow in I.O.O.F. Cemetery, Sullivan, MO.
Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, at the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan.
Merrit Riley Fletcher Hudson known as “Big Sonny” was born on July 15, 1944 to the late Merrit Orville and Ollie Mae (Thompson) Hudson in St. Louis, MO. He grew up and attended school in St. Louis and began his working career at a very early age. In January 1970, Big Sonny was united in marriage to Adele Littlefield. While working for MoDOT, Big Sonny suffered a serious back injury. The family then moved to Lake of the Ozarks, later moving to Sullivan. Big Sonny was very knowledgeable about many things. He was also involved in many activities with his family including; boxing, gardening and motorcycles. He always had a lot of energy and loved to talk. Big Sonny was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Arie # 3781 and V.F.W. Russell Schmidt Post 3987 of Sullivan.
He passed away Friday, November 4, 2016 at his home in Sullivan.
He is survived by his son; Sonny Hudson (and wife, Deborah) of Sullivan; three daughters: Erica Hudson (and friend, Tim Board) of Sullivan, Laura Hudson (and friend, D. J. Walker) of Leasburg, and Sandy McGowan of Bernie, MO; a son-in-law, Wes Baker of Cuba; 16 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; three sisters: Jeannie Hudson of Sullivan, Betty Massa and husband Bob of Sullivan, Violet Statzel and husband Vern of Desoto, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Big Sonny was preceded in death by his parents; Merrit and Ollie Mae (Thompson) Hudson, his wife; Adele Hudson and four siblings; Roby Hudson, Barbara Hewlett, Fay Marinack, and Joyce Thompson.
All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO.