Jayson Hudson, 53, of Blacksburg, passed away peacefully on Sept. 21, 2026, after a courageous fight with a rare form of cancer. He was surrounded by the love of his family and friends, who will remember him for his quick wit, deep knowledge of so many things, and tireless commitment to take care of those he loved.
Jayson was born in North Dakota on June 24, 1973, and grew up in Blacksburg. A Boy Scout, Jayson met his wife of 28 years, Amy, at scout camp over 34 years ago. Her career and his passion for the hospitality industry took them from SWVA to Denver, Colo., and Boston, Mass., before returning to Blacksburg in 2017. During his travels he worked as a sommelier, chef, and restaurant manager and was known for his ability to make those around him better by imparting his vast knowledge of the industry and leading by example.
Upon his return to Blacksburg, Jayson co-founded JH Bards Spirit Co, leaving a legacy that is marked by his ability to bring people together and will continue to be defined for many years to come. His and Amy’s service in Scouting also continued as active volunteers with the Girl Scouts. He touched countless lives in this service as a troop co-leader, Adventurer, council trainer, outdoor chef extraordinaire and member of the Gold Award committee.
Jayson is survived by the love of his life and best friend, Amy; mother, Wanda Green, and her husband, Rusty; stepfather, Dan Brown, and his partner, Sharon Day; brother, Derek Hudson; nephews, Logan and Carter; niece, Marley; and their mother, Kristy; mother-in-law, Judith Friant; brother-in-law, David Friant, and his wife Elizabeth; nieces, Kathleen and Stephanie; nephew, Brandon; five cats; and numerous relatives, multitudes of Scouts, and countless friends.
A celebration for Jayson will be held in the near future. Details will be forthcoming.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council, Animal HOPE Alliance or Mountain View Humane.
The Hudson family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
