Ms. Levora Hudson was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late Marvin and Clemmie Merritt. She was one of three children born to this union and was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Marvina Merritt, and brother, Calvin Merritt. On June 5, 2026, Levora peacefully departed this life in the comfort of her home.

At an early age, Levora accepted Christ and remained a lifelong member of New Prospect Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. A. L. Collins. She faithfully served her church through the Inspirational Choir, Mission Department, Youth Ministry, College Hill Bible Study, and the Willing Workers Club.

A proud graduate of Central High School's Class of 1954, before embarking on 35 years of dedicated service to the Cincinnati Public Library. Through hard work, professionalism, and leadership, she rose to become Supervisor of the Catalog Department, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues.

On November 27, 1976, Levora married the love of her life, Leander Hudson. Together they shared a life filled with faith, family, travel, friendship, and treasured memories. They enjoyed fishing, entertaining guests, and creating lasting memories with those they loved. After 35 years of service, Levora retired early at the age of 53 to lovingly care for her husband during his illness. Her devotion remained steadfast until his passing on April 6, 1991.

Faith and service were the cornerstones of Levora's life. As President of the Willing Workers Club, she helped lead fundraising efforts that supported the church's mission and ministries. She organized events such as the annual Valentine Tea, fellowship outings, and trips to New York City and La Comedia Dinner Theatre. She was especially proud to contribute to the church's mortgage-burning campaign through the purchase of a commemorative leaf, which still bears her name today.

Levora was also known as the ultimate hostess. Holiday dinners and celebrations were her specialty. She found joy in preparing meals, setting beautiful tables, and making others feel welcomed. The silverware sparkled, the dishes were prepared with love, and every guest who entered her home was treated like family.

Though she never gave birth to children, Levora mothered many. Her family and countless others were recipients of her wisdom, guidance, encouragement, and unconditional affection.

One of the greatest examples of this love was her relationship with Ceauntey Gordon. Following the passing of his mother, what began as a temporary arrangement blossomed into a beautiful relationship that lasted for more than seven years. Levora welcomed him into her home and into her heart. Over time, Ceauntey became the son she never had, and the two were truly inseparable. Their relationship was built on love, trust, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Their bond reflected everything that made Levora special—her compassion, generosity, faith, and unwavering commitment to others. She considered Ceauntey one of God's special blessings in her life.

Levora dearly loved her family and would do anything for them. She was the person family members turned to in times of need, always ready to offer help, encouragement, or support. Whether someone needed a place to stay, a financial blessing, or simply someone to lean on, Levora was there. Her generosity, selflessness, and unwavering devotion to her family will forever be remembered and cherished.

She lived her life on her own terms and remained fearless until the very end. She possessed a quiet strength, unwavering determination, and a spirit that refused to be diminished by life's challenges. She appreciated life's simple pleasures: a good book, a cup of black coffee, a cigarette, meaningful conversation, laughter with family and friends, and time spent with those she loved. She was authentic, resilient, and unapologetically herself, qualities that made her even more beloved by those who knew her best.

While our hearts grieve her absence, we rejoice in knowing that she has entered eternal rest and has been reunited with loved ones who have gone before her.

LEAVING TO CHERISH HER PRECIOUS MEMORY

Her devoted daughter, Pat Brown; loving sisters, Shirley (Cory) Merritt-Johnson, Lavonne Merritt, Laverne (Denman) Merritt-Gordon, and adopted sister, Jeraline Wilcox; devoted niece, Heidi Thompson; beloved nephews, Gregory (Lynne) Merritt, Louis (Tasha) Lee, and Marvin (Genessa) Merritt; cherished grandchildren, Yolanda (Rob) Thrower, Richard Brown, Gideon Dubose, and Shakeba Dubose; great-nieces and great-nephews, Michael Stewart, Danielle Thompson, Blake Thompson, Marcus Merritt, Louis Lee Jr., and Corey Revels; cousins, Adrienne (William) Stevenson, Debra Viney, and Toni Gwynn; along with a host of other great-nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, church family, dear friends, and loved ones whose lives were forever changed by knowing her.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm, on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the New Prospect Baptist Church, 1580 Summit Road, Cincinnati (45237). The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 12:00 pm. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy she leaves behind.

She will be laid to rest at Spring Grove Cemetery, 4521 Spring Grove Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45232.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Hudson family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Hudson family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.