Dorothy Opal Hudson

Dorothy Opal Hudson, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, family member, church family member and friend departed for her new home in Heaven on November 11, 2013. Dorothy lived 86 full and rich years. She spent most, but not all, of her life in Greene County and Monroe County in Indiana. Dorothy was the seventh child of Elmer F. and Rosie Effie (Atchley) Howard, and was born in Odon, Indiana on March 28,1927. As a young girl, Dorothy walked everywhere, studied and graduated high school, enjoyed her time in the country, and helped care for the young children of other mothers. Dorothy loved the laughter and play of children all of her life. Dorothy was an active member of Clear Creek Christian Church where her faith was strengthened. Later, when she was able, she regularly attended Maple Grove Christian Church where she also helped with children’s programs. Dorothy worked hard as a busy self-employed woman for many years while raising children (her own and caring for the children of others). Dorothy’s self-employment roles included decorating cakes, clothing alternations and seamstress challenges, teaching cake decorating classes, and ironing for others. Later in life, Dorothy was employed by S.T. Simicon in Bloomington, National Cash Register in both Bloomington and in Dayton (Ohio), and Sam’s Club in Bloomington. Dorothy was gifted with artistry and compassion. She was a wonderful cook which she shared generously with many. Her home was always open. She also had a magic green thumb for growing all sorts of fruits, vegetables and colorful flowers in her well-kept over-sized garden. Dorothy had a caregiver’s heart and helped many through some challenging medical issues. She was willing to help in any way that she could. She accepted people wherever they were on their life journey, and added a spark to each relationship. Dorothy enjoyed family gatherings and visits, sharing time with friends, memorializing those who had gone before her, music and singing, and volunteering at schools and in her community. Dorothy also enjoyed quilting, crafts, writing encouraging notes to others, and researching family genealogy. Dorothy appreciated all who touched her heart through prayers, by kind words, in cards and notes, with visits and calls, and with road trip invitations. Her suitcase seemed to always be packed. Dorothy was blessed with two daughters in a previous marriage to Robert Eugene Hudson. Dorothy is now survived by daughter Shirley Simmerman & husband Jay, and daughter Sherry Morris & husband Richard. Dorothy is also survived by her dear grandchildren Troy Simmerman, Trevor Simmerman & wife Jacinda, Kyle Simmerman & wife Stacia, and Dan Morris & wife Allison. And Dorothy is survived by precious great-grandchildren Audrey Simmerman, Wesley Simmerman, Bryce Simmerman, Parker Wolfla, Gavin Morris and Morgan Morris. In addition, Dorothy is survived by her beloved sisters Norma Zigler & husband Vernon, and Lorene Ballard & husband William. Dorothy is also survived by many special nieces, nephews, family members by marriage, classmates, friends, and next generations of many. Dorothy was truly blessed by those surrounding her. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, by her beloved brother Ira Howard & wife Dorothy, brother Paul Howard & wife Opal, sister Pearl Fancher, brother Calvin Howard & wife Ruth, brother Arthur Howard & wife Mildred, and sister Cora Boling & husband George. Dorothy was also preceded in death by other very special family members and dear ones in her life. We love you Dorothy, and we look forward to seeing your bright smile and experiencing your gentle spirit and playful energy in Heaven. Burial will take place following the services at Scotland Cemetery in Scotland, Indiana.

Dorothy Opal Hudson

March 28, 1927 - November 11, 2013