Shirley Louise Hudson

Shirley Louise Hudson, born in 1935 in Holland, Michigan went to be with her Lord and Savior on February 4, 2025. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry T. Hudson, the founding pastor of Calvary Chapel in Massillon, Ohio. They spent their lives in the ministry throughout the United States and Europe spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. Shirley earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Malone College, and a Master of Science degree from the University of Akron. She also attended Milwaukee Bible Institute in Wisconsin, and the University of Perugia in Italy. Shirley retired from teaching 4th grade at Watson School in Perry Local School District, Massillon, Ohio. She was involved in the ministry through writing, music, children’s ministries, and Bible studies most of her life. She was accomplished on piano, organ, and marimba which she had played most of her life. She picked up the harp later in life, along with “playing around” with many other instruments. She had six books of her Soliloquies published over the years. 

"He Awakens Me, Meditations of My Heart, He Lifts me Up, He Gives me Peace, He leadeth Me, and He Gives Me Life."

In addition to her husband, Henry, she is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Sadie Smit; brother Bob Smit and sister, Julia Henkel–Hobbs. 

Shirley is survived by her sister Elaine Taylor and her three children: Bruce Hudson, Joan Hudson, and Linda Lower. Seven grandchildren: Jerry Beall, Richard Hudson, Nancy Hudson, Sarah Hudson Horne, Jake Gauze, Hope Gauze Schnabel, and Matthew Lower. 15 Great Grandchildren and two Great-Great Grandchildren. She will also be missed by a host of nieces and nephews.  

 Visitation will take place on Monday, February 10, 2025, from 10 – 11AM, at Paquelet Funeral Home, 1100 Wales Rd., Massillon, OH 44646. Her final resting place will be in Rose Hill Memorial Gardens. Memorial Donations may be made to Calvary Chapel, 8151 Stuhldreher St. NW, Massillon, OH 44646. 

To leave a condolence for the family or to share a memory of Shirly, please visit the online guestbook below.