The Virginia community and the wrestling world are mourning the loss of Hudson Stewart, a talented athlete and valued member of the Goode, Virginia, community.
Hudson, a two-time Virginia state wrestling champion, passed away tragically, leaving behind a legacy of determination, kindness, and adventure.
His Sudden death has left his family, friends, and teammates in deep sorrow, but his energetic spirit and outstanding achievements continue to inspire all who knew him.
Hudson Stewart was born in Goode, Virginia, to parents Warren and Julie Stewart and was raised alongside his four older brothers—Zeb, Eli, Luke, and Reid.
Hudson grew up in a tight-knit family with a shared passion for wrestling.
Each of his brothers carved their own paths in the sport: Zeb competed at the Virginia Military Institute, Eli at Ohio Valley University, Luke at Campbell University, and Reid at Presbyterian College.
Hudson’s family history of sports and hard work influenced his path, which motivated him to succeed in wrestling and in life.
At Brookville High School, Hudson’s talent shone brightly.
He became a two-time Virginia state wrestling champion, a three-time Virginia state place winner, and a three-time District and Region Champion.
His strict work ethic and natural ability made him a standout, earning him respect and admiration from coaches, teammates, and opponents alike.
Hudson’s high school years built the base for a wrestling career that would take him well beyond Virginia.
Stewart Was A Scholar-Athlete At The University Of Virginia
Hudson continued his wrestling journey at the University of Virginia, where he studied sociology from 2020 to 2024.
Balancing academics and athletics, he earned a spot on the ACC Academic Honor Roll, evidence of his commitment to excellence in all areas of his life.
On the mat, Hudson competed in five tournaments and one dual meet during his college career, showcasing his skill and tenacity.
His time at UVA was marked not only by athletic achievements but also by personal growth, as he embraced opportunities to develop his leadership and critical thinking skills through the university’s Catalyst program.
This initiative helped Hudson hone his ability to tackle complex challenges, preparing him for a promising future.
Hudson’s adventurous spirit led him to explore the world through wrestling.
As part of Athletes in Action, he traveled to countries such as Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Kosovo, and Ukraine.
These international experiences pushed him out of his comfort zone, allowing him to connect with athletes from diverse backgrounds and immerse himself in new cultures.
Each trip was an opportunity for Hudson to grow, not just as a wrestler but as a global citizen with a deep appreciation for the world around him.
The friendships he formed and the lessons he learned abroad became cherished parts of his story.
A Community Comes Together To Help The Stewart Family
Following Hudson’s passing, his sister-in-law, Anna Stewart, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and support the Stewart family during this difficult time.
The campaign, which initially set a goal of $16,000, has already raised over $25,000 —a powerful reflection of the love and admiration Hudson inspired.
According to the GoFundMe description, the funds will assist with funeral costs, transportation, and other expenses, allowing the family to focus on healing and honoring Hudson’s memory.
The strong support shows how much Hudson affected his community.
From his teammates at Virginia Tech to his high school coaches, friends, and neighbors in Goode, countless individuals have shared stories of his warmth, determination, and infectious positivity.
Social media posts from the wrestling community highlight the depth of this loss, with many describing Hudson as a role model and a light in the lives of those around him.
Although Hudson Stewart’s life was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched.
He was more than a champion wrestler; he was a devoted son, a loyal brother, and a friend who brought joy to those around him.
His journey—from the wrestling mats of Brookville High School to the international stages of Eastern Europe—reflects a life lived with courage, curiosity, and heart.
As the Virginia Tech wrestling community and the Stewart family guide this huge loss, they find comfort in the memories of Hudson’s achievements and the love he shared so freely.
Rest In Peace, Hudson
