Obituary of Rodney S Hudson

Rodney Hudson, 76, of Syracuse passed away on Monday, June 17 after a brief illness. Rodney was a career teacher and practitioner of the performing arts, and led his life – onstage, in the classroom, and in private – with courageous generosity and an unwavering dedication to lifting the spirits of those who sought his counsel, his advice, and his friendship. He is survived by his niece, Marlissa Hudson; nephew William Hudson III; great-nephew Hudson Eaton; scores of close and special friends; and two beloved cats Stanley and Charley. Born in St. Louis, MO in 1948, Rodney received his B.A. from Southeast Missouri State, followed by an M.A. program in theatre at the University of South Dakota. He began Ph.D. studies at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, but departed before receiving a degree and began a career as an actor and director, finding success on Broadway, in film, and on stages throughout the world. But his most enduring achievements happened in the classroom, especially during his 26 years in the Syracuse University Department of Drama. In Rodney, students found a champion, an advocate, a mentor, and a collaborator who both nurtured and challenged in equal measure. Colleagues remember him as an artist of unmatched character, who used the poetry of theatre and song to connect with the larger world. And all remember him as a singular and warm soul who sought to foster kinship and understanding with those who came into his life.