Obituary - Herman Wesley Hudson Jr.

Herman Wesley Hudson Jr, “Rocky”, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025, in his home at the age of 70. He was surrounded in love and comfort by his wife, sons, sister, extended family, and many friends. Rocky battled cancer for two years with bravery and dignity.

Rocky was born on October 25, 1955, in Richmond, Virginia. His family moved to a home in Varina and Rocky remained in the community throughout his life. Rocky was devoted to helping others and building bridges. His service to others was rooted in his faith in God and love for his family and community.

Rocky was preceded in death by his mother Betty Lou Powell Hudson and his father Herman Wesley Hudson Sr.

Rocky is survived by: his wife Cindy Allen Hudson, his son Herman “Wes” Hudson III (Victoria), his grandchildren Violet, Forrest, Reed, and Dallas, his son Stephen Hudson, his sister Suzanne Hudson, his stepmother Helen Hudson and her family. Always an animal lover, Rocky’s cat Ruby stayed by his side throughout his journey with cancer.

Rocky had the utmost love and respect for his extended family: Brenda Reid (Barry), Joe Allen (Arleen), Larry Allen (Kathy), Gary Harvey (Florence) and six nephews and nieces and their families.

Rocky worked with his father at Richmond Rubber Company following his high school graduation in 1974. He was proud to say he entered the Henrico County Division of Fire in 1970, at the age of 15, as a non-riding cadet at Fire Station #4 in Varina. When he was 18 he became a riding cadet and began attending training classes and volunteer meetings. He was hired in 1977 as a firefighter and began working his way to the rank of Assistant Chief. Rocky retired from Henrico Fire in 2013, and he always proudly added his volunteer years to have a total of 43 years of service. In 1998 he was deployed to Florida as crew leader for Virginia Engine Task Force for wildland firefighting operations. In 1989, Rocky was honored to become an instructor of the National Incident Command System (ICS) for Henrico Fire, Virginia Fire Programs, and county employees. From 1995 to 2004 Rocky worked at the Richmond International Raceway when the NASCAR races came to town. He served as a Division Supervisor, managing career and volunteer personnel for many large-scale events at the raceway. He took pride in the bridges he built between Henrico Fire and Henrico Police that continue to enhance the region's public safety. Following his retirement Rocky continued as a contract employee with Henrico Fire to teach the required ICS classes.

He also diligently served the Virginia Department of Forestry for 43 years from 1981 to 2024 in many ways, notably as a go-to tractor plow operator for local brush fires. He enjoyed his many appearances as Smokey Bear, including some at the State Fair of Virginia.

Rocky became active in the Boy Scouts of America when his oldest son joined Cub Scouts in Pack 501. This led to many years of service as den leader, Cubmaster, and eventually Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop 501. Two of his proudest moments occurred when first Wes, then Stephen became Eagle Scouts. In 2001 and 2005 he accepted the position of Fire Chief for the National Scout Jamboree. He led 70 personnel, six fire stations, and 10 executive staff for this large-scale event held at Fort A.P. Hill.

Rocky’s faith journey began at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Richmond and after his marriage he joined his wife in membership at Hardy Central Baptist Church. In 2000 the family transferred to Four Mile Creek Baptist Church where he continued to worship and serve. He gladly used his musical talents in the church choir and praise teams. He served on the Baptist General Association of Virginia Disaster Response Team for several years and travelled far and wide to support the team. He initiated and led the “ACME Ramp Team” as he called it, to install home access ramps throughout the community. This effort was supported by funds from Four Mile Creek Baptist Church and private donations. The team enjoyed fellowship together while providing a much needed ministry to many families.

Rocky leaves behind a host of beloved friends and, of course, his second family with Henrico Division of Fire. He never met a stranger and everywhere the family travelled Rocky found someone he knew. Rocky firmly believed that everyone’s prayers supported him in continuing cancer treatments for two years. His family expresses deep appreciation for all the support given to them during this difficult time. They are grateful to the doctors, nurses and staff at VCU Health and the Massey Cancer Center for their conscientious care. They are grateful to the staff of ACG Hospice team that stepped in to offer Rocky his desire to transition from this life to the next in the comfort of his home.

Donations in Rocky's memory can be made to Henrico Firefighters & Families Charitable Foundation. Donations to Metro Richmond Flying Squad will be accepted at the reception.

Rocky Strong

The family will receive friends Monday, December 29, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 South Laburnum Avenue, Richmond, VA 23231. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 30, at 11 a.m. at Fairmount Christian Church, 6502 Creighton Rd, Mechanicsville, VA 23111. Interment will follow at Washington Memorial Park, 6217 Memorial Dr., Sandston, VA 23150. A reception will be held on Tuesday, December 30, at Dorey Park’s Recreation Center following the interment.