Matthew Benard Hudson

Matthew Bernard Hudson, a.k.a. “Bernie”, came into this world on September 17, 1954, with a cry. He departed this world with a sigh, after the Lord called him home on April 26, 2024. Matthew was a native of Miami, Florida and made Athens, Georgia his permanent home in 2006, after spending many summers in Athens during his younger years with family.

Matthew was a believer of Christ and was a member of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church. He was also a member of the Usher Ministry and served until his health declined. In retrospect, he lived, he loved, and he laughed. Matthew loved cooking and barbecuing was his passion. He was always ready to gather, entertain, and had a big personality. Socializing with family and friends was very important and rewarding for him. He enjoyed fishing for leisure and loved listening to jazz and gospel music. He never met a stranger and found purpose in assisting senior citizens in his neighborhood.

Matthew was known as a sharp dresser. He loved all styles of hats and was known for wearing his signature “Kangol”, which was his favorite hat. Even though Matthew was never blessed with biological children, he was a mentor to his nephews, nieces, relatives, and younger people that he imparted wisdom to and shared his life experiences.

He leaves to cherish his memories; Sister; Jacqueline Goodlowe, Brother; Larry (Cecelia) Hudson, Aunt; Darlene (Bennett) Johnson, Sister-In-Law; Loretta Stovall. He was preceded in death by his parents; Anne and Charles Hudson, his brothers; Michael “Mickey” Stovall Sr., Ernest “Tweet” Hudson, and Joe “Joey” Graddick Jr. He also leaves a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives, friends, and his beloved pet dog Dora.

“God saw the road was getting rough,

The hills were too hard to climb.

He gently closed Matthew’s weary eyes,

And whispered, “Peace Be Thin