Hudson Smith

Hudson Smith, age 3, of Syracuse, passed away surrounded by his family on September 17, 2026, at Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis. He was born on June 11, 2023, to Jordan Smith and Kayla Courtney in Elkhart, Indiana. In his three short years, Hudson brought an incredible amount of joy, sweetness, and light to the lives of those who knew and loved him.

Hudson was, more than anything, an incredibly happy little boy. He truly loved his life, and it showed in his smile, his laughter, and the excitement he found in the people and things he loved. Hudson faced many challenges throughout his three years, but through each one, he showed remarkable strength and determination. His strength amazed his family and all those who met him, but it was the happiness and sweetness he carried through it all that made him so special. The way Hudson embraced life inspired everyone fortunate enough to know him.

More than anything, Hudson loved being around his people. He was happiest when he was surrounded by those he loved, soaking up their attention and affection. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved making his family laugh. The love he had for them was easy to see, and being together was always where Hudson wanted to be.

Hudson was incredibly smart, curious, and full of personality. He loved going down the slide and swinging, listening to music, and spending time with animals, especially his dogs. He loved lying in the grass doing his “clock stretches” and making everyone smile with his “mashed potatoes” dance. He enjoyed Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Mickey Mouse Funhouse, Pets the Movie, and Bluey, and especially loved playing with his Bluey toys. These simple, everyday moments became some of his family’s most treasured memories.

Hudson’s family will remember his beautiful smile, his laughter, his silliness, his determination, and the happiness that seemed to live so naturally within him. He was funny, smart, strong, loving, and incredibly special. He was deeply loved every day of his life, and he gave that love right back. Though his life was far too short, the joy Hudson brought into the world was enormous. His family will carry that joy, and the countless memories they made with him, for the rest of their lives.

Hudson’s story is not one of losing a fight. He won his fight in the way he lived and in all the life he packed into those three years. Hudson knew how deeply he was loved, and he loved his life right back.

Hudson is survived by his parents, Jordan Smith of Elkhart and Kayla Courtney of Syracuse; his grandparents, Luke and Deb Smith of Elkhart and Paul and Jeanette Courtney of Syracuse; his great-grandparents, Hap and Pat Boulette of Michigan and Ken and Andy Culp of Florida; and his aunts and uncles, Rebecca (David) Burkholder of California and Josh (Stacie) Smith of Elkhart.

A Life Celebration Visitation will be held on September 25, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Titus Funeral Home-Syracuse, 1001 South Huntington St., Syracuse, Indiana 46567. A Mass will follow on September 25, 2026, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at St. Martin de Porres Parish, 6941 E. Waco Dr., Syracuse, Indiana 46567.

Donations in Hudson’s memory may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Indiana or Riley Children’s Hospital (https://give.rileykids.org/campaign/848083/donate).