Thomas Rodney Hudson, age 73, died at home on June 17, 2020, surrounded by his family in Payson, Utah.

Tom was born September 19, 1946 in Payson, Utah to Lily and Rodney (Duke) Hudson. Tom always said he had the best childhood any kid could ask for, growing up in Santaquin in a big, loving family, playing ball, hunting, fishing, and learning to work hard in the family apple orchard.

He graduated from Payson High School and four years of Seminary, which he was so proud of, in 1964. He attended Dixie College and Weber State University, where he played baseball while earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Education.

He married Sue Burton and was sealed in the Manti Temple. They raised their five children in Payson, Utah.

Tom was an amazing and dedicated husband and father, and, like his dad, he made every occasion so memorable.

Tom lived life to the fullest. He was a true outdoorsman. He loved hunting, fishing, and being in the mountains. He also enjoyed sharing his love of Lake Powell with family and friends.

He was an avid gardener and got so much enjoyment sharing his bounty with all of his neighbors and friends.

Tom was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He held many callings through the years that he loved, including serving in Bishopric, High Council, and teaching Gospel Doctrine. His favorite calling was working with the youth.Tom and Sue served a Pathway mission and worked in the Payson Temple.

Tom continued his love of learning, earning his Master’s Degree and a PhD from Brigham Young University. His influence as a teacher and administrator was far reaching and has impacted so many people’s lives.

Tom was the ultimate teacher and was always teaching us lessons, even to his very last breath. More than anything, Tom wanted to be remembered as a “Good Man.” He was a loyal friend, a loving husband and father, and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Sue (Payson, UT), his five children, Andrea (Danny) Lamoreaux (Veyo, UT), Kristen (Nate) Dunford (Payson, UT), Michael (Joanna) Hudson (Payson, UT), Lari (Clint) Sprague (Santaquin, UT), Holly (Jeremy) Gardner (Mapleton, UT).

He was preceded in death by his baby son, Matthew, his parents, and his grandparents.

Special thanks to Dr. Sean Curzon, Mari and the A Plus Hospice team for the loving care they gave our husband and father.

There will be a viewing held on Monday, June 22, 2020 from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Walker Funeral Home, 587 South 100 West, in Payson, Utah.

Funeral services will be held, Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at 10:00 am at the Payson City Cemetery. Please bring a lawn chair as we have been asked to practice social distancing.