Great Mrs. Hudie Stone
Rock Lake/Spring Lake - Hudie Stone embodies dedication to family and community. Her impact on children in Central Florida is immeasurable. Hudie Elizabeth Willhite, now Stone, met her husband at Tuskegee University, and chose to focus on raising their six children while managing their home. After becoming a resident of Rock Lake for 46 years, she is celebrated as one of the community's most esteemed members.
Rock Lake provided the Stones with convenience, necessities, and a nurturing environment. Hudie extended her focus beyond her household and engaged in community service. Her unwavering commitment to community welfare led her to create programs like "School Clothes Make a Difference," which provided necessary clothing for underserved families. She served on numerous committees and organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, United Negro College Fund, and Heart of Florida United Way.
Before moving to Orlando, Hudie had a vibrant career as a Head Start teacher and later managed the program in Tuskegee, Alabama. Her involvement in the Parent Teacher Association continued in Orlando, where she served at the local, county, and state levels. Her dedication earned her the Florida PTA and National PTA Life Membership Award.
Hudie's boundless enthusiasm brought positive change to her community. Whether distributing food at local elementary schools or being a "den mother" for Cub Scouts in Rock Lake, Hudie made a lasting impact. Despite her petite frame, Hudie spearheaded neighborhood infrastructure improvements, including enhancing safety around Rock Lake Elementary School. She also played a significant role in developing the Rock Lake Community Center. Her love for the community is evident in all her endeavors. As a member of the Rock Lake Neighborhood Association, she has celebrated numerous awards and grants, including the recognition of January 30, 1992, as Hudie Stone Day.
Although Hudie faces the challenges of advanced dementia, her legacy serves as a guidepost emphasizing the importance of active advocacy in one's community. Her life and accomplishments remind us that to effect change, one must actively participate and contribute constructively to their community. With compassion, dedication, and tireless spirit, Hudie Stone has left a lasting impact on the lives of those around her.
