Leota May Hudson, age 84, of Maxwell, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Rolling Green Village in Nevada.

Born on December 22, 1941, Leota was the beloved daughter of James and Marjorie (Graham) Gardner. She grew up in Maxwell, where she graduated from Maxwell High School. She met her high school sweetheart, Theodore "Ted" Hudson,

whom she married on June 21, 1961. Their loving union would become the cornerstone of a large and devoted family.

Leota worked at Collegiate Pacific and Casey's, but her greatest dedication was to her family. Raising her children was her life's greatest joy. Beyond her home, Leota was a pillar in the Maxwell community. At 73 years, she was the second longest member of the Maxwell Methodist Church, and served as a Maxwell First Responder and Firefighter for more than 30 years. Other memberships included the Iowa Firefighters Association, Story County Firefighters Association (past secretary) and the Graham Cemetery Board. Her commitment to public service included 14 years on the Maxwell City Council and delivering Meals on Wheels for many years. Leota also volunteered her time at the Maxwell Museum, ensuring that the town's history remained alive for future generations. She was an active member of the Legion Auxiliary and the Ladies Coffee Club, always ready to lend a hand and a smile. Her love for Maxwell was evident in all she did, and she was known for her willingness to help wherever she was needed.

Leota treasured her family above all. She is survived by her children: Scott (Sue) Hudson, Tim (Janet) Hudson, James (Tammy) Hudson, Tom (Lisa) Hudson, and Matthew (Billie) Hudson; her 16 grandchildren; her 20 great-grandchildren; and her brother, Jody (Candis) Gardner. She was preceded in death by her parents James and Marjorie; her beloved husband, Ted, in 2024; her daughter, Jennifer Viers, in 2025; and her sister, Billie Horn.

Leota's greatest legacy is her unwavering devotion to her family and her community. She touched the lives of many through her service, kindness, and generosity. Her warmth, care, and community spirit will be missed by all who knew her. Leota's memory will continue to inspire those who were privileged to call her a friend, a neighbor, and most importantly, family.

A joint celebration honoring the lives of Leota and Ted Hudson and their daughter, Jennifer Viers will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Maxwell Fire Station in Maxwell. Family will greet friends beginning at 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at the Maxwell Cemetery in Maxwell.

Memorials may be directed to the Maxwell Firefighters Association or the Maxwell Legion Auxiliary.

Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Maxwell is handling arrangements. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.rasmussonfh.com.