Robert Hudson

Robert L. Hudson

1/19/1932 – 1/2/2021

Robert (Bob) Hudson, of Orlando, Florida, was reunited with his Creator, Lord and Savior on January 2, 2021, two weeks shy of his 89th birthday.  Bob was the middle of three sons born to Rev. Col. John and Helen Hudson in Tampa, FL.

Affectionately known as “Red” in high school, Bob experienced his first 3 years of high school in Germany just after WWII while his dad was serving as a Chaplain with the US Army.  He finished high school at Sarasota High School, graduating in 1950.   An excellent athlete, Bob, lettered in 2 sports, football and baseball.

After transferring from Clemson, Bob attended Florida State and focusing on baseball.  He graduated in 1955 after a  successful baseball career and with a degree in Business Administration.  Eventually signing a professional baseball contract with the Cleveland Indians organization.  The dream of the big leagues was cut short by injuries and Bob began his business career in the insurance industry.  He soon switched to transportation working for Ryder Truck Rental, Inc. in Miami.  Bob’s independent nature and knack for leadership led him to strike out on his own in 1966, by starting Servitor, Inc. Initially focused on automobile and medical equipment leasing, it soon, began competing in the truck rental and leasing industry.  Over the course of its 20 year history, Servitor operated locations in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and Tampa.

Robert met his beloved wife, Ruth Ann (Whittle), at FSU and they married in 1957. Residing briefly in Miami, and then Plantation, FL.  Where they raised their three children, Lee, Sharon and Doug. Affectionately known by his grandchildren and many others as “Coach” he coached or helped coach most every sports team his children participated in.  The heartbeat of this ambitious family man was to faithfully serve Jesus Christ through the ministry of the local church.  For Bob’s family that meant primarily First Baptist Church of Ft. Lauderdale for over 35 years of teaching, leading, discipling, evangelizing and even some coaching. And then eventually First Baptist Church of Orlando for almost 20 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. John N. Hudson (Lt. Col. Retired), Helen F. Hudson and 2 brothers, John Grant Hudson and James Norton Hudson.

His memory will be cherished by his wife of almost 64 years; by his sons, Lee (Carolyn), Doug (Carrie) and daughter, Sharon Dodd; 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, January 16, 2021 2PM at First Baptist Church - Henry Chapel, 3000 South John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL 32805. A Private Graveside Service will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Gotha, FL.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Russell Home for Atypical Children or First Orlando Foundation, would be appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to CAREY HAND COLONIAL FUNERAL HOME, 2811 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, FL 32806 407-898-2561 www.careyhandcolonialfh.com

Here is a link to view the Celebration of Life Service for Mr. Hudson below:

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