Stacey Sowers Hudgins

Stacey Sowers Hudgins, the vibrant heart and soul of her family, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, April 5, 2025. A woman of immeasurable love, strength, sass, and wit, she wore many titles throughout her life: daughter, mother, wife, lolli (grandma), sister, best friend, cruise director, accountant, therapist, and sometimes—unofficial hitman. Stacey was the matriarch, the glue, the chaos coordinator, and the memory-maker of the family. She would go above and beyond to make every experience unforgettable… and, more often than not, actually enjoyable too. Her love for her family and friends was unmatched. Whether it was beach getaways, destination cruises, or spontaneous adventures, Stacey was happiest when surrounded by her people. Raised in a family of race horse owners and boaters, Stacey’s love of the track and the water was planted early. From childhood weekends at the races with her parents, uncles, and aunts, to adult life as a racehorse owner and weekend boater, she never strayed far from those roots. She encouraged her children to stay involved and active—whether it was competitive cheerleading, football, or getting to work. Stacey held many unofficial titles, but some of her most prestigious were: Official Family Cruise Director, Family Accountant of the Year (17 years running), Oprah or Dr. Phil (depending on which one you needed that day), She was the keeper of juicy gossip, the one with the biggest heart for those she loved—and an even bigger fist for those she didn’t. Her love of animals meant her home was never empty—always filled with fur, feathers, and the occasional "what is that?" creature. She also helped lead her family’s business for over 30 years, with her leadership on the ActionTeam setting the gold standard for Christmas parties, birthdays, bar mitzvahs, and quinceañeras alike. Stacey is survived by her mother, Mary Sowers of Nokesville, VA; her husband, Brian Hudgins; sons, Dallas Shanks (Chelsea w) and Evan Hudgins; daughters, Makenzie Shanks, Maddie Hudgins, and Alexis Drone; granddaughters, Lakelyn Shanks and Brayley Robinson; her brother, Scottie Sowers; sister, Kim McConnell (Barry); niece, Jessica Sowers; her lifelong best friend, Mike Shanks; and a wild, wonderful extended family of cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and the many friends she chose as family. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Sowers. Stacey was fiercely loyal, wildly funny, and incredibly loving. A horse running in a field, an ocean breeze, sand in your shoe, an ugly Christmas sweater, or a fresh piece of juicy gossip—these are just a few reminders that Stacey is still with us, in spirit and sass. The family will receive friends and loved ones from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Sunday, April 13, 2025 at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 10719 Courthouse Road, Fredericksburg. A Celebration of Stacey’s Life will begin at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Her presence will be missed for eternity. Her spirit, however, refuses to leave—and thank goodness for that.

Stacey Sowers Hudgins

July 19, 1977 - April 5, 2025