(Courtesy photo)

Joshua “Josh” Hudson Jr., also affectionately known as “June a boy”, was born on December 25, 1934, in Marengo County, Alabama. He was the eldest son of Joshua Sr. and Carrie Hudson. As a child, Josh loved and played baseball in school. He stayed active in sports throughout his life, learning to play racquet ball and he was an avid bowler for over 50 years. Josh also enjoyed being the player’s agent for Compton’s Little League Baseball and kid’s Flag Football Leagues for many years.

In 1958, Josh moved to California with his brother Buddy settling in Long Beach.   Josh had the gift of tailoring.  He was employed by several dry cleaners as a presser until he began his tenure with the Long Beach Naval Shipyard.

Josh’s strong work and ethic skills were recognized, and he was promoted to General Manager serving three Naval Bases, Long Beach, Ventura and the San Diego Base.

Two things Josh loved as much as his family was bowling and his CB radio crew. His nickname and CB handle “JW” (JDUB) is known all over the country with his famous CB exit “This is JW from Compton, Cal and I’m Out!”

Everyone that knew Josh, is aware that bowling was his absolute passion. He served as the secretary of three bowling leagues.  His leadership brought stability to his bowling team and the CB radio group during difficult times through personal donations and fundraisers.

A kind and jovial man, Josh loved his family, immediate and extended.  He never missed a sports activity, recital, reunion and was always available for a family barbecue.  Joshua Hudson Jr.’s laugh and upbeat enthusiasm for life was uplifting to anyone he met.  He was everyone’s handyman, auto mechanic, CB antenna consultant… Call him with a problem, he would try his best to be the solution.

He lived his best life until it was his time to join the ancestors. His final chapter of life’s journey ended November 30, 2021, in Downey, California.

Josh was proceeded in death by his wife Cherry Hudson and his son Michael Hudson. To carry on his legacy of kindness, generosity and love of family are his six daughters Michelle Hudson, Cheryl Hudson Cleamons (James), Natasha Barbee, Tanesha Hudson, Lisa Hudson and LaCorey Hudson-Cowains (Adron); 13 grandchildren, Jade Daniel, Rachel Burris (Aaric), Geneece Shallowhorn, Imani Cleamons, Coreyahn Hudson Hewett, Rose Cleamons, Oshon Mitchell, Jr., Joseph Richard, Jayden Tate, Mikaela Johnson, Michael Tate, Joshua Johnson and Kahmari Bradshaw; 3 Great grands, Genesis Trotter, Elijah Burris and Demi Trotter; his brother Genether Bud Hudson and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Joshua “JW” Hudson, Jr. – a wonderful father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, and everything else!