Felicia Hudson: The Santa Monica College community remembers the campus shooting victim

SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA. – Family, friends and colleagues gathered to mourn the loss and celebrate the life of Felicia Hudson, a prison warden who was killed earlier this week. At 54, Felicia was remembered for her warmth, joy and a smile that could “light up any room.”

“That smile – the one that made you feel good when you saw it. That was our Felicia,” said a colleague during the emotional candlelight vigil.

Felicia spent nearly 28 years at Santa Monica College, working her way up to Custodian Manager. Known for her hard work, quiet strength and deep love for those around her, she has impacted the lives of many on campus.

“She was a woman who worked hard, loved deeply and lived with calm and grace,” reflected a close colleague.

The vigil came just days after a heartbreaking incident on Monday, October 14, when Felicia was shot and killed by her colleague, Davon Durell Dean. Despite efforts to save her, she died in hospital two days later.

Her mother, Kathy Hudson, stood before the crowd, her voice full of sadness as she shared her great sadness. “I’m so hurt…if it’s your firstborn, your child…if you’ve never lost one, you don’t know the pain.”

Amid her grief, Kathy also expressed her deep gratitude for the love and support she received from the community. “I can feel the love for Felicia everywhere. Everyone has been so nice and I just want to thank you all.”

The celebration of life continues Friday morning at 10 a.m. at the Santa Monica Performing Arts Center.