Opal Carroll Hudgens

Mrs. Opal Carroll Hudgens, age 94, peacefully entered her heavenly home on August 3, 2026. Born on April 18, 1932, in Stonewall, Georgia, Opal lived a life defined by unwavering faith, enduring love for her family, and remarkable creativity. Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life on Friday at 11:00 a.m. at Parrott Funeral Home in Fairburn, Georgia, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Opal graduated from Campbell of Fairburn High School and was a longtime member of Eagles Landing First Baptist. While she was primarily a devoted homemaker, she also enjoyed working for five years at Rich's department store in downtown Atlanta. Gifted with extraordinary artistic talent, Opal was a self-taught artist whose home reflected her passion for beauty and creativity. Every room showcased her artwork, transforming her home into a gallery of her life's work. She was especially known for her breathtaking landscape paintings, which brought peaceful outdoor scenes indoors and created a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all who visited. Working in acrylics, oils, watercolors, ceramics, and macramé, she found joy in creating beautiful things with her hands. She especially loved designing and hand-painting personalized greeting cards for her family, friends, and church family. She was also well known for her catering and beautifully crafted custom wedding cakes that made countless celebrations even more special. A dedicated student of Scripture, Opal devoted countless hours to reading the Bible and studying Christian doctrine, continually deepening her faith and sharing those truths with others. More than any accomplishment, Opal will be remembered for her steadfast Christian faith. She was a devoted follower of Christ who never missed an opportunity to share the love of God with her family, friends, and everyone she met. Her faith was the foundation of her life and the legacy she leaves behind. She spent her childhood in Stonewall, Georgia, and most of her adult life in East Point and later Stockbridge, where she built a loving home centered on faith and family. Opal was a devoted grandmother who played an essential role in the lives of her grandchildren. She lovingly taught them to read, shared her creativity through arts and crafts, and passed down her love of cooking and baking. Through these cherished moments, she created memories and traditions that will continue through generations. In June 2024, Opal and her beloved husband, Leonard Hudgens, celebrated the extraordinary milestone of their Diamond Anniversary, marking 75 years of marriage—a testament to their lifelong love and commitment. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruby and James Carroll; her beloved husband of 75 years, Leonard Hudgens; her daughter, Charlotte Buckley; and her siblings, Louise Wilson, Jimmy Carroll, Marvin Carroll, and Ray Carroll. She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Scherry (Gene) Sword and Sharon (Jay) Smith; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and several cherished nieces and nephews. Though her family grieves her passing, they rejoice in the assurance that Opal's faith has become sight. Her kindness, artistic spirit, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to the Lord will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know and love her. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Samaritan's Purse.

Opal Carroll Hudgens

April 18, 1932 - August 3, 2026