Gerald Vaugine Nathaniel Hudgens Jr.

Aug 10, 1950 - Jun 19th, 2024

Birth Date: Aug 10, 1950
Death Date: Jun 19, 2024
Funeral Date: Jun 25, 2024, 10:00 am
Location: Christ the King Catholic Church, 4000 N. Rodney Parham Rd., Little Rock AR 72212
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Biography: Gerald Vaugine Nathaniel Hudgens, Jr., 73, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2024. Throughout his lifetime, Jerry was known for his kind and generous spirit. His life reflected his deep faith and his endless love for his wife of 53 years, Gwen, and his daughter, Kimberly.

Jerry was born in Little Rock, AR on August 10, 1950. He was preceded in death by his parents Rose Metrailer Hudgens and Gerald Vaugine Hudgens. Jerry graduated from Catholic High School and earned a BA degree from UALR. He was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity.

Jerry began his career in commercial printing at International Graphics Incorporated in Little Rock, AR before moving to New Orleans. In New Orleans, he joined Harvey Press’s management team. Later, he fulfilled his professional dream of becoming part owner of Harvey Press. During his career, he served as a Board member of the Printing Industry Association of the South.

Jerry is survived by his wife Gwen Schlesier Hudgens and his daughter Kimberly (Ray) Hickingbotham of Carrollton, TX. Jerry is also survived by his seven siblings Diane Logan (Dave Cartier), Susan Massey, Helen Billingsley (John), Robert Hudgens (Cathy), Stephen Hudgens (Tonya), Alice Cooner (Les) and Janie Hudgens, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Also, preceding Jerry in death were brothers-in-law, Tom Logan, and Charles Massey.

Jerry’s childhood was filled with love and joy shared with his seven brothers and sisters and the fourteen Kelly cousins living next door.

The family especially appreciates the loving care given to Jerry by the staff at Woodland Heights Memory Care Unit and especially the loving comfort provided by Zan and the staff at Gentiva Hospice.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 24 from 5-7 pm at Ruebel Funeral Home, 6313 W Markham St., Little Rock AR 72205, with a Rosary starting at 6:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am, on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at Christ the King Catholic Church, 4000 N. Rodney Parham Road. Immediately following the mass, a committal service will be held at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his honor to Catholic High Foundation or Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org). Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com

Condolences(11)

Sharon Brannon McCone

#11

Jun 27th, 2024 9:23 am

Gwen, I only learned of Jerry’s passing this morning, June 27. I remember when you two had young love and you’ve grown through many seasons together. I pray for your peace and comfort now and in the sad times that will periodically appear out of nowhere. Love, Sharon

Reginald Rogers

#10

Jun 25th, 2024 3:31 pm

Steve, Robert, Janie, Alice and the Hudgens Family: May God grant you strength at this time of loss. Jerry was a great guy. Rest assured that Jerry is in Heaven with his wonderful parents and all of our Loved Ones who have ascended to Heaven. May he Rest in the Peace of Christ. Reg Rogers Catholic High Class of 1977

Susan Boe

Jun 23rd, 2024 11:46 am

I am so sorry for your loss. I hope happy memories will be a comforting source of grace.

Janice Finch Wilkerson

Jun 23rd, 2024 8:25 am

So sorry for your loss. I knew Jerry from high school. I did have a crush on him. He was the sweetest guy. I always remember him as being smart, & kind to everyone. I know his family will miss him. Keep all those sweet memories alive in your hearts. You are in my prayers.

Christine Browning

Jun 22nd, 2024 1:57 pm

Sending love and prayers to Kim, Gwen and all of Jerry’s family. I was fortunate to get to know Jerry through my friendship with Kim and know he was a wonderful and special Dad. You have many, many beautiful memories to cherish.

Jody Simmer

Jun 21st, 2024 12:24 pm

Sending condolences to Jerry’s family and may he rest in peace. Janie through our chats I feel like I knew Jerry, wishing you peace knowing that he is with your mom & dad. Love, prayers & hugs!

Catherine Talpas

Jun 21st, 2024 10:59 am

You Dad was a good friend to me in high school. We became friends in a summer typing course at Central High. I valued his friendship and kind personality.

Susan Kucera

Jun 21st, 2024 10:50 am

Jerry hired me at Harvey Press and we worked together for many years. He was such a great person to work with. I know he was respected and loved by everyone at Harvey Press. Rest in heavenly peace.

Lisa Agee

Jun 21st, 2024 6:35 am

I had worked with him for many years while he was at Harvey Press. He was a friend and a mentor to me. I send love and prayers for his family.

Tami Alderman

Jun 20th, 2024 5:40 pm

I had the privilege of being Jerry's hairstylist for over 10 years. He always was a pleasure to be around. I not only considered him a client, but also a friend. We would have great conversations. I enjoyed hearing about his family, friends, life in Louisiana, and most importantly all of the precious memories he'd share of him and Gwen. I will treasure the time we spent together, and the honor of being there for him and Gwen with my services and support. I feel blessed to have known him throughout the years. My deepest condolences to Gwen, Kim, family and friends. Jerry will be greatly missed, but always loved.

Paul Alker

Jun 20th, 2024 2:47 pm

I had the great honor to work with Jerry as both a co-worker and business partner until and through Hurricane Katrina. I could not have asked for a better partner.
Jerry was was one of the finest people I have ever know.
Rest in painless peace now, my dear friend.

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