Ricky Alan Hudson, affectionately known to all as "Bop," was a beacon of unwavering support and love. Born on the last day of 1960 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Bop's journey through life was one marked by an indomitable spirit and a heart that knew no bounds. On December 1, 2023, surrounded by the love of his family, Bop passed away in Walker, Michigan, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma. His legacy, however, is etched in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Bop's life was a testament to the power of resilience and determination.

He attended Union High School until the 11th grade and then went on to graduate with a diploma from Creston, exemplifying that it is never too late to embrace new beginnings. His work ethic shone brightly through his diverse career, which included roles at Amway Grand Plaza, Grand Rapids Press, Dominoes, and Try Hours. However, his most cherished role was that of a father and grandfather. Raising five children as a single parent and contributing to the upbringing of his grandchildren, Bop was the epitome of selflessness and love. Family was the cornerstone of Bop's life.

He was the cherished son of Marjorie Ann Hudson Wright and George Raymond Hudson and a beloved brother to Mark, Lisa, Brian, Cory, and Audrey. His siblings, along with their children, shared a bond with Bop that was unbreakable. The love of his life, Jobea Hudson, stood by his side. His triplet daughters, Brandi, Kaleena (Joshua) Loughner, and Rikki (Christopher) O'Brien, along with his sons Dakota (Juels) Hudson and Hunter Hudson, were his pride and joy. Bop's grandchildren—Rusti, Chance, Matteline, AlexAnne, Aisah, Rowan, Riley, Ellery, Blake, Vanessa, and TaviLyn—were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Bop's passion for life was infectious. His love for music filled the home with joy, and his presence at his children's and grandchildren's events—from cheerleading to wrestling—was a given. He was the loudest cheerleader in the stands, his encouragement echoing far beyond the confines of any arena.

Bop found serenity at the beach, basking in the sun's embrace until it dipped below the horizon, followed by a sweet tradition of ice cream before returning home. These simple yet profound pleasures were the fibers of a life well-lived. Describing Bop as wise, selfless, and loving only scratches the surface of the man he was. His wisdom was a guiding light, his selflessness a blueprint for compassion, and his loving nature a reminder of what truly matters in life. In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—this is to have succeeded." Bop not only succeeded; he soared, lifting the spirits of all who knew him. As a motivational speaker inspires others to reach for their dreams, so did Bop inspire his family and friends to live with purpose and passion. His life was a vivid illustration that every moment is a gift and that the love we share is the ultimate legacy we leave behind.

Ricky Alan Hudson's story does not end here. It continues in the laughter of his grandchildren, in the resilience of his children, and in the countless lives he touched. Bop's journey was one of unwavering courage, boundless love, and the profound impact one person can have on the world. Let us honor his memory by living with the same fervor and love that he demonstrated every day. Bop's life was a beautiful melody that will resonate for eternity, reminding us all of the power of a positive spirit and the enduring strength of family.