Obituary of Vernal J Hudson

Hudson, Vernal

It is with deep sadness that the family of Vernal Josiah Hudson announces his passing on Friday, September 5^th 2025 at the age of 92 at Markham Stouffville Hospital, Ontario

Vernal was born in St. Ann, Jamaica on January 8, 1933.  He was a dreamer and as a young teenager, he was not satisfied with the lack of opportunities in rural Jamaica, so he left the countryside and moved to Kingston to learn the cabinet making trade.  It did not take him long to master the trade and soon after, he found himself a job.  During that time, he met the love of his life, Bernice, and together they became the dynamic duo as they demonstrated traits of entrepreneurship by investing in a small grocery shop, manufacturing picture frames and furniture to make extra income.

As a young trailblazer, he was always looking for better opportunities and as a result, he migrated to England in 1960 and Canada in 1965 to have a better life for himself, his young family and extended family.  In Canada, Vernal worked for Ontario Hydro for 32 years where he received many honours for his work ethics and professionalism.

He was a caring father to Pauline, Loraine (Ed), Tony (Sue), Phillip (Agata), Sharon (Percival) and Ian who predeceased (2012) him.  He was a strict disciplinarian who instilled values of hard work and integrity in his children, always encouraging them to do the right thing.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed gardening, travel and watching sports.  Upon retirement, he would go to the gym Monday to Friday from 7am to 1pm up until the age of 80.

Vernal will be deeply missed by his wife, Bernice, his children, grandchildren, brothers; Desmond (England), Milton and Lloyd, nieces, nephews and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Operation Smile Canada. Donation link is on the lefthand side.