In Memory

Joan Hudson (Anderson) - Class Of 1946

Joan Hudson (Anderson)

Joan Hudson Anderson passed away peacefully on May 8, 2017, just short of her 89th birthday (June 2, 1928). Joan was born in South Pasadena where she attended high school and met her true love, Harry O Anderson (SPHS '46). She attended UCLA and soon after started a family in Del Mar, California. Her family moved to San Jose and then Aptos where she finished her masters degree in Early Childhood Education at San Jose State University in the 1960s. She taught at the elementary school level at Natural Bridges and Gault School in Santa Cruz and also tutored local students throughout her life.

Joan was a life-long advocate for peace, working with her brother, Richard Hudson (SPHS '43), the editor for the United Nation's War and Peace Report, advocating for the Binding Triad in the UN as well as being a member of WILPF (Women's International League for Peace and Freedom). She was politically active supporting local democratic candidates as well as a member of the local Santa Cruz group 'Raging Grannies' and most recently worked on promoting Personal Rapid Transit. She enjoyed the beach, camping, and riding her bicycle.

After living in Aptos for over 40 years, she lived her past five years at Dominican Oaks where she would be spotted riding her adult tricycle on the grounds and being a very active resident. Joan loved spending time with her family, being a kind, loving, and supportive person to all. She was always a delight to everyone she met. 

Joan is preceded in death by her husband, Harry Anderson, her brother, Richard Hudson, and her granddaughter Kristen Anderson. She is survived by her sons and their wives; Craig (Patricia), Lance (Kendra), Damon (Trudy), and Todd; six grandchildren and two step-grandchildren.

Santa Cruz Sentienel, May 28, 2017