James "Jimmy" Hudson

James “Jimmy” Hudson of Durham, North Carolina, passed away on January 22nd in his home surrounded by family after a life rich in love, dedication, hard work and deep-rooted community ties. Jimmy is preceded in death by his parents, Rodney and Mildred Hudson and brother and best friend, Walter Hudson.

Born in Danville, Virginia, he moved to Durham at the age of two and proudly called it home for the rest of his life.

Jimmy was a graduate of Southern Durham High School and continued his studies at NC Wesleyan College and Durham Technical Institute, building the foundation for what would become a well-respected career in surveying. His professional journey began early, working with Roy Grimm while still in high school and college. He later served as a project engineer with the Nello Teer Company on the I‑40 expansion through RTP before returning to the surveying field, his true calling. He went on to own and operate Southeastern Surveys for more than 50 years, providing high‑quality surveying services throughout Durham and the surrounding counties. Most notably, the Corps of Engineers project for 3 county’s flood studies and the road relocations for Falls Lake and Jordan Lake. He took immense pride in the precision of his work and the reputation he built over half a century.

Jimmy also spent roughly 15 years with the Bethesda Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as a fireman, captain, assistant chief and vice president. The camaraderie, brotherhood and lifelong friendships formed during those years were among the great joys of his life.

A man of many passions, he enjoyed NASCAR racing and all collegiate sports especially Duke basketball. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, yard work, dirt-bike racing, bluegrass concerts and festivals, and rebuilding antique tractors.

Above all, he was most proud of his family. He is survived by his high-school sweetheart and wife of 57 years, Deborah Harris Hudson, three daughters: Mandy Chavis (Rich), Courtney Williams (Matthew), and Paige Goss (Andy), 5 grandchildren: Taylor Bunn (Matthew), Skylar Chavis, Bracy Chavis, Jacob Williams, Ellie Goss and 3 great grandchildren, 2 brothers, Rodney Hudson, Jr. (Brenda) and William “Bill” Hudson (Cathy) and many nieces and nephews. His legacy of hard work, integrity, loyalty and love for family and community will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Durham Memorial Baptist Church, 133 Robbins Rd., Durham, NC 27703.  Rev. Hugh O'Shields will officiate.

The family will receive friends prior to the service starting at 1:00 P.M.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Freddie Harris, Grady Harris, Dwight Nash, Marvin Utley and Jerry Hackney.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Durham Memorial Baptist Church.