Leah Darlene (Cox) Hudson

Leah Darlene Hudson, affectionately known as "Susie," passed away on December 16, 2024, in Hood River Oregon, at the age of 86.

Susie lived by a simple motto, love deeply, laugh often, and enjoy ice cream, nightly. A simple bowl of vanilla ice cream was her favorite.

Susie had a big laugh; it was a contagious laughter that brightened the lives of those around her.

Born September 17, 1938, in Van Nuys, California. The daughter of Merle Dale Cox and Viola Violet Straley Cox.

Susie Graduated 1956 from Watsonville High School in Watsonville, California.

Susie met the love of her life, Jon Hudson, in the fourth grade. Their love blossomed into a deep love, culminating in their marriage on April 10, 1957.

Throughout their marriage, Susie devoted herself to her husband and family, accompanying Jon on his military journeys around the world. Together they raised four daughters: Karen (Terry) Gaddis, Sandie (Loren) Ramos, Kristi (Bryce) Peltier, Leah (David) Cox.

As a military spouse, Susie ensured that family connections remained strong, fostering relationships with both immediate and extended family members.

With every military move Susie embraced the new states/countries and their cultures. Germany was a family favorite. Enjoying the scenic beauty, castles, local foods, and family picnics. Over the years the family has laughed about these picnics. A lot of the picnics were at a stop alongside a country road, cows were usually involved. Susie was a passionate cook and cultivated a treasured recipe collection from her various travels.

While growing up Susie had a very spirited and adventurous nature. This followed her through her life. An example of this is the numerous beer steins that she collected while in Germany, shenanigans were always involved. All of this despite not drinking.

In Susie's later years, she faced the challenges of dementia. Despite the struggles with her memory, she continued to find joy in laughter, music and cherished moments spent with her daughters. Susie never lost her sweet tooth and still enjoyed her ice cream, lemon cake, smoothies, and…

Susie is survived by her 4 daughters, 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Susie is survived by her brother, Clayton Cox, her sister Cheryl Hurley Briant, brothers-in-law Gary (Debbie) Hudson, Paul Miller Jr, David (Sue) Miller, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Susie was preceded in death by her beloved husband Jon Wayne Hudson, parents Merle and Viola Cox, sisters Winona (Richard) Skocko, Myrna (Jack) Wagner, brother Dale (Shirley) Cox, sisters-in-law Sandi Miller, Betty Cox, along with her in-laws Paul Sr. and Naomi Miller.

Published in The Pajaronian · February 4, 2025