Ruth ‘LaVonne’ Hudson, age 90, died peacefully on September 17, 2024, in Walnut Creek, CA. She was born on July 14, 1934, in Spearman, TX. LaVonne is survived by her daughter, Marta Lucille Hudson, brothers Butch Baker [Irene], Phillip Baker [Diana], and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Albert Russell Baker, mother, Ruth Lucille Baker [Tevebaugh], husband, Donald Byron Hudson, son, Nicholas Byron Hudson, an infant son, and brother, Don Russell Baker [Barbara].
LaVonne graduated from high school in Cheyenne Wells, CO in 1953. After graduation, she attended secretarial school in Denver, CO. On December 29, 1953, she married her high school sweetheart, Donald B. Hudson, at the United Methodist Church in Cheyenne Wells. As a devoted wife and partner, LaVonne supported Don during veterinary school at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO by working as a receptionist for an ophthalmologist and cashier at Safeway. After graduation in 1960 Don and LaVonne purchased a veterinary practice [Twin Forks Clinic] in Benkelman, NE, and started their family. LaVonne fielded after hours veterinary calls to Don on the Motorola Radio and shuffled Marta and Nick to 4H Horse Shows, while actively serving the community. In 1977 Don and LaVonne sold the veterinary practice and moved to North Platte, NE, where Don accepted a position as UNL Extension Research Veterinarian.
LaVonne was a classy lady, devoted homemaker, mother, and community member. She was an active member of the Nebraska Veterinary Medical Association Auxiliary, Nebraska Cattlewomen, United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Rebekah Lodge, Extension Club, Winter Dance Club, North Platte Senior Center, and PEO. When Don pursued his passion for steer roping, LaVonne traveled with him across the country to the PRCA Senior Steer roping events. Reflecting on his cheerleader wife, Don once said that “LaVonne could have fun in a dirt storm”. As a side note, Don had to take ballroom dancing lessons in exchange for steer roping. When Don retired, LaVonne took great pride in the refurbishment of the century old house at Clearview Ranch in Benkelman. On the ranch, there was always a place for cowboys to congregate in LaVonne’s kitchen for a homecooked meal, laughter, conversation, and a pitch card game [which she won]. LaVonne enjoyed gardening, cooking, dancing, and entertaining. Her love and compassion for her kittens, Corgi dogs, and Marta’s cow herd were a source of joy in recent years. Throughout her life, she was an avid rodeo fan. She was loved by all who met her and encouraged others always to have a positive attitude.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation on September 26, 2024, 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM [with family receiving friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM] at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home, 421 W 4th Street, North Platte, NE. The funeral will be held on September 27, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the First United Methodist Church, 1600 W E Street, North Platte, NE followed by dinner. The graveside ceremony and burial will be held on September 27, 2024, 3:00 PM at the Benkelman Cemetery in Benkelman, NE. Memorial gifts may be given to First United Methodist Church in North Platte. Adams & Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family.