OBITUARY: Fred Matthew Hudson

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Fred M. Hudson, 92, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026 at Hospice Haven.

Born in 1933 and raised in Rockingham, North Carolina, Fred worked in the textile industry and served his community as a volunteer firefighter with the City of Rockingham Fire Department. For many years, he also continued operating his family’s grocery store, Hudson’s Grocery.

Fred was deacon emeritus of Roberdel Baptist Church. At the time of his passing, he was the oldest living resident of Roberdel and was lovingly known as the “Mayor of Roberdel.” He loved fishing and gardening and will be remembered with love by his family and all who knew him.

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Edith; his sons, Carl and David; his daughter, Betty; his sisters, Annie, Rosa, Jewel and Mary; and his brother, James.

He is survived by his brother, Jack, and sister, Violet.

He is also survived by his children: Ray and his wife, Terri; Marvin and his wife, Rachel; and Bobby and his husband, Jack. Fred’s son Carl’s partner, Steve Grooms, is also among those who lovingly remember him.

Fred leaves behind five grandchildren: Adam and his wife, Holly; Ryan; Stephanie and her husband, Chris; Sierra and her husband, Shane; and Madeleine and her husband, Reed. He is also survived by six great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 from 1:45 to 2:45 p.m. at Roberdel Baptist Church. The funeral service will start at 3 p.m. with Pastor Phil Goble officiating. Interment will follow at Bear Branch Cemetery. 

Online condolences can be made at carterfuneral.net,

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