Congratulations to the 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees!
Carl Hudson, Jr.
Paxton High School, Class of 1960
Carl Hudson Jr. is a member of the Paxton Community High School graduating class of 1960. After graduating high school, Carl went on to complete his Bachelors of Science in Pharmacy from Purdue University in 1965. Carl has since made significant contributions in his career and in the Paxton community. These accomplishments include owning Hudson Drug Shop from 1975 -2007, which became one of the first pharmacies to become computerized in the 1980’s. Carl spent several years teaching American Red Cross courses in several Ford County communities and has served on the Board of Directors for the Paxton Community Hospital, before it’s closing, and the Gibson Area Hospital Board of Directors, totalling 49 years of service. In addition, Carl has been an elected trustee of the Paxton Area Fire Protection District and has served in this role for thirty-six years. Furthermore, he has made contributions to various community organizations and boards including the Ford County Mental Health Board, Paxton Chamber of Commerce, Founding Member of the PBL School Education Foundation, Cunningham Children’s Home Foundation Board, in addition to several others. He was a finalist for the national Next Generation Pharmacist Civic Leader of the Year in 2010 and a recipient of the Bowl of Hygeia Community Service Award through the Illinois Pharmacists Association. He also founded and coached the Paxton Swedes, an E.I. League baseball team. Carl Hudson Jr. has significantly impacted the Paxton and surrounding communities through his extensive involvement, investment, leadership, and innovative ideas.
