Knoxville — Friends and family are mourning the loss of Dr. Charles Hudson, the man who owned UT's beloved mascot, Smokey X.
Hudson, 65, was the latest member of his family to own and train the famous line of blue tick coon hounds. He and his wife Cindy took over from his father, Earl Hudson, about 8 years ago. Earl Hudson died in June.
Smokey X lives a pampered life at Hudson's home unless he's needed for his official mascot duties during football season and special events.
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According to the university, Hudson had been battling lung cancer. A lifelong UT fan, he rarely missed a football or basketball game. Despite his failing health, he was there with his family when the men's basketball team defeated Georgia on March 3 to win a share of the 2018 SEC Championship.
"Although (Dr. Hudson) was very reluctant to accept any assistance (at the basketball game), spirit squad members were honored to assist him to his seat before and after the game," Tennessee Spirit Coordinator Joy Postell-Gee said. "His pain was at a staggering level, but his will to attend far surpassed his discomfort. The family's act of courage to attend this game and their generosity of sharing their family pet with thousands of Tennessee fans for decades truly exhibits the volunteer spirit."
Hudson is survived by his wife, Cindy, and children Katherine and Samuel. Cindy told us that Charles was a very humble man who loved his family and his Union County community. He personally picked Smoky X as a puppy, and was always thinking about his welfare, even in his final days.
The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday, March 24, at Rose Mortuary on Broadway in Knoxville with a funeral service to follow at 7 p.m. Burial will take place Sunday, March 25, at the Fairview Cemetery at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Fountain City Ministry Center or the Union County Red Cross.
