Howard Dean Hudgins, 88, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on Thursday, August 15, 2024. He was born March 17, 1936, in Ringgold, Va., near Danville. He was the son of the late Howard Henderson Hudgins and Thelma Pruitt Hudgins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Johnsie Hudgins, and his only brother, Pruett Baxton Hudgins. He was a man of integrity who worked hard and deeply appreciated his family.

Howard served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War from 1954-1958, ending in inactive duty for the next four years. He was stationed in Goose Bay Labrador Arctic and West Palm Beach, Fla. He was assigned duties in the supply systems department. Howard spent over 30 years in the textile industries in purchasing and production control, with 17 of those years working with Ithaca Knitting Manufacturing Company in Wilkesboro, N.C.

Howard had a love for restoring old cars. He was mechanically minded and enjoyed designing and selling original jewelry. He and his late wife Johnsie began Bradshaw Sales, a company that sold minerals and their jewelry. Together they traveled the southern region of the United States displaying and selling their merchandise at annual conventions. The many friends they made over the years was always a joy for both of them. So many friends will truly miss the eagerness of each to help with their selections and answer questions about the finds of so many precious minerals. Together they formed a working relationship that grew over the years and led to a very successful life in the business world. They ventured into land development, creating two subdivisions. He was an accomplished builder, and restorer of old homes. The landscaping of his property was admired by those who passed by his home.

Mr. Hudgins leaves to cherish his memories a sister, Betty Hudgins Brumfield(Buddy) of Keeling, Va.; sons, Howard D. “Chip” Hudgins Jr. of Madison, N.C., Marty Hudgins, and Eric Hudgins of Wilkesboro, N.C.; and daughters, Donna Lynn Hudgins of Greensboro, N.C., Renea Hudgins and Connie Call (Rusty), all of Wilkesboro, N.C. He also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to a charity of your choice in honor of Mr. Hudgins life.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared by visiting www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com.

Memorial service date and time will be announced at a later date.

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is assisting the Hudgins family.