Doris (Hovis) Hudson

Doris Hovis Hudson, 94, wife of the late Jack Shaw Hudson, died Wednesday November 15, 2023 at Courtland Terrace Gastonia.

She was born March 31, 1929 in the Steele Creek Community of Charlotte, NC, a daughter of the late Robert Belk Hovis and Roma Brigman Hovis.

Doris was a graduate of Women’s College of Greensboro North Carolina (now UNCG) with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Later she earned a Master’s of Arts in Liberal Studies from Hollins College in Roanoke, Virginia. Her career began as an educator at New Hanover High School in Wilmington, North Carolina. Doris retired from public education in 1991 finishing her career at Conway High School, Conway, South Carolina. She taught English and Drama but also spent several years as a Librarian in the school system. As a retiree Doris supervised student teachers for the education department at Coastal Carolina University.

Doris met her husband Jack Hudson while working as a Presbyterian summer camp counselor at Camp New Hope in Chapel Hill. Her love of fellowship through church camping continued for many years participating as a leader for music and recreation. Throughout her career in education and during her retirement Doris became very active in Theatre. She directed and performed in many community plays in Virginia and South Carolina. Doris was a member of the Myrtle Beach Arts Committee and supported the arts through participation as an advisor.

Throughout her life, Doris was a worshipping member of the Presbyterian Church. Beginning in North Carolina, Texas , Virginia and finally as a member of First Presbyterian Church of Myrtle Beach, SC. Using her time and talents in the church Doris led youth groups, sang in the choirs, taught Sunday school, participated in women’s circles, assisted in after school programs and served as a Deacon in her late eighties.

Doris enjoyed traveling, whether it was a trip abroad or exploring almost all of the United States. Her love of adventure and appreciation of the beauty and history of the area was recorded in photos, postcards and memoirs or a purchase of an antique.

Always active, Doris was an avid gardener and loved getting her hands in the dirt. As a senior she took classes with the Osher Lifelong Learning program, participated in book clubs, sewed, played bridge, and in her 90's joined Silver Sneakers at the YMCA.

Survivors are two daughters Ruth Hipp (Mike) of Iron Station, NC and Sandra Wagner (John) of Taylors, SC. Three granddaughters Lauren Hundley (Bobby), Carmen Hipp and Sara Jorgensen (Charles).

A memorial service will be held at a later date at First Presbyterian Church in Myrtle Beach, SC.



Memorials may be made to: First Presbyterian Church of Myrtle Beach, PO Box 70127 Myrtle Beach, SC 29572-0127

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