Purnell Leroy Hudson

Purnell Leroy Hudson was born on September 18, 1935, to Esther Hudson and Rodell Turner. He grew up in Earleigh Heights, Maryland. On August 29, 2025, at the age of 89, Purnell was called from labor to reward, closing a life well-lived and filled with service, joy, and love. Purnell was educated in the Anne Arundel County School System and graduated from Wiley Bates High School in 1954. Soon after he entered the United States Air Force, where he began a distinguished 20-year military career. During his service, Purnell was stationed across the globe, including tours in Greece, Italy, Japan, Germany, and Africa. Even in retirement, Purnell’s strong ties to the military continued. He was a familiar face at Andrews Air Force Base, where he could often be found shopping at the commissary, getting a haircut, or bowling. Prior to the pandemic, he was an active member who attended chapel services on base, where he served faithfully on the usher board. Purnell accepted Christ at an early age and never hesitated to testify to God's enduring favor throughout his life. In addition to his military service, Purnell was employed at the Pentagon and Walter Reed Medical Center. He later ventured into entrepreneurship, owning and operating a lawn care business. Purnell lived a vibrant and active life. He had a passion for fishing, especially at Solomons Island. He enjoyed boating, bowling, ballroom dancing, painting and sports. A devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, he never missed a game. He was a certified bowling instructor and gifted bowler who proudly celebrated numerous perfect games and wore the rings to prove it. Known for his spirited personality, Purnell never passed up the opportunity to “toot his own horn”. Purnell was an active member of the Wiley Bates High School Class of 1954 Reunion Committee, a loyal member of the Banneker Ballroom Dance Club, Montford Point Marine Association, Inc., and block captain of the Millwood-Waterford Citizens Association Inc. Purnell Leroy Hudson lived a full and meaningful life as a veteran, a faithful servant, a proud family man, and a beloved friend to many. His legacy of strength, service, and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Tributes

Purnell Leroy Hudson

September 18, 1935 - August 29, 2025