Amelia Lucia (Bettiga) Hudson joined her Lord on Sunday, February 9, 2020 at 6:15 p.m., surrounded by much love.

Amelia was one of five children born to Emelio (Spini) and Maria (Scalvini) Bettiga on a dairy ranch in Fleener Gulch near Ferndale on September 14, 1927.

Amelia graduated from Ferndale High School in 1946. Following graduation, she worked as a switchboard operator in downtown Ferndale. This is where she was working when she met Kennith Michael Hudson. They were married at The Church of The Assumption on Saturday June 24, 1950. They made their homes in Ferndale, Scotia, Vacaville, Napa, before eventually returning to the Eel River Valley.

Kennith, Amelia and son Thomas made their forever home in Fortuna, where they were involved in the community through Boy Scouting, Pop Warner Football and numerous civic clubs. Amelia worked at Redwood Memorial Hospital in Fortuna before she retired.

She had a deep love for her large Italian family, and took great pride in being born to Italian American immigrants.

Amelia is survived by her son Thomas and grandson Kennith Hudson, both of Cloverdale, her older brother Angelo (Winnifred) Bettiga of Fortuna, numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, godchildren, as well as her special dear friend Nina D’oro of Fortuna.

She was preceded in death by her husband Kennith, her sister and brother-in law Gloria and Alex Nordhues, her brother and sister-in-law Charles and Kay Bettiga, her younger brother Floyd Bettiga as well as numerous cousins, relatives and close friends.

Amelia or Millie (as known by close family) was baptised as an infant in The Church of the Assumption in Ferndale, and remained devoted to her Catholic upbringing, attending church regularly as a member of St Joseph Parish in Fortuna. This is where she celebrated her love for the Lord and gained compassion and empathy for all persons. Her greatest joy was her family, always taking care of Thomas, his cousins and friends.

After the passing of her husband she took some time to travel, often visiting Cloverdale and the Wine Country. She also took up bowling and senior gym, where she shared her laughter making new friends.

A celebration of her life and love will be announced at a later date, when family and friends can come together on a day that was so special to Amelia as per her request.

A special thank-you to caregiver Terra James — although your service was a short time, your help was monumental to Mom. Lori Coppini and Teresa Scalvini for being here with compassion when it was needed most.

In lieu of flowers (eat chocolate, as Mom would say) we request in memory of Mom that memorial contributions be made to your favorite charity. Thank you for the love.