Gordon Lamar Hudson, 80, of Palm Bay, died on October 12, 2014, from complications of Alzheimer's disease. Gordon, a/k/a "Gooby," was born in Winston-Salem, NC, on November 10, 1933, to the late Hinton Gardner Hudson, Sr. and Margaret Baggs Hudson. Gordon attended the University of North Carolina, where he met his future wife, Frances "Peggy" Hall Hudson, who predeceased him in 1987. Upon graduating from UNC in 1955 and marrying Peggy, Gordon entered the U.S. Air Force as an officer, honorably serving as a navigator until 1960. After leaving the Air Force, he moved to Miami, FL, where he resided for many years, before moving to Central Florida. He attended Barry University and obtained a M.A. degree in English in 1967. Gordon was employed by Dade County Public Schools from 1968-1991, teaching English at Palmetto High School until his retirement. He also was an English instructor at Miami-Dade Community College.

Gordon is predeceased by his brother, Hinton Gardner Hudson, Jr., and his sister, Sarah Margaret Blades. He is survived by his children Chris Hudson (Judy) of Indialantic, and Frances Hudson (Chris) of Palm Bay; and his two grandchildren Jake and Nikki Hudson. He also is survived by various cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Gordon made a great impact on the many students he taught throughout the years, as well his children and grandchildren. Gordon loved surfing, fishing, sailing, scuba diving, kayaking, and camping. He was a gymnast at UNC; and at the age of 50 he started participating in triathlons and various running races, including running a marathon at the age of 62. Gordon also volunteered his time at libraries in Palm Bay and Sebastian. As his Alzheimer's advanced, he became the entertainment in the various residential facilities in which he resided. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

Private family services will be held at sea at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gordon's name may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation. Donations may be made online at Alz.org or mailed to Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011. Condolences may be offered at www.davisseawinds.com.