Kenneth Ray Jerome Hudgins

Kenneth Ray Jerome Hudgins, age 71, a six-year resident of Sylva, NC, passed away at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC, on Monday, February 2, 2026, with his family by his side.

Ray was born on May 13, 1954, to the late Harrice Gerome Hudgins (2006) and Alma Christin Woody (2004). He was a graduate of Clyde A. Erwin High School and went on to earn two bachelor’s degrees and a master’s degree while proudly serving our country for 20 years in the United States Army. Some of his favorite pastimes included gardening, fishing, and shooting guns. He treasured the time he spent enjoying these hobbies.

In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his sister, Glenda Darlene Berry (2013).

Those left behind to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 32 years, Linda Gayle Hudgins; sons, Eric D. Hudgins and Bradly R. Hudgins; daughters, Tracy Elizabeth Keough, Brittany Ann Shields, and Tammy Loparnos; stepmother, Brenda Littrell-Hudgins; grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Ashlyn and Jazmines, Jared, Blake, Corbin, Leighton, Oscar, Chase, and Xavier, Taylor, Artemis, Ava, Emily, Kenneth Lee Loftin- Adams and Karie LeeAnn Loftin; great-grandson, Gray; siblings, Patricia Reed, Steven, Barry, Darin, Brett, Kelly, Terri Huey and Lana Sanders; niece Elizabeth Diane Loftin.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to their family, friends, and church family for their kindness and prayers.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

II Timothy 4:7 NKJV

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””

Joshua 1:9 NKJV

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Penland Family Funeral Home is honored to be caring for the family at this time.

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