Rachel Ann Hudson, 80, of Lyle, Minnesota, passed away Monday, Jan. 20, 2020, at her home in Lyle.

Rachel was born May 20, 1939, in Sheldon, Iowa, the daughter of Allison and Catherine (Miller) Hudson. She graduated from Sheldon High School in 1957. Rachel always wanted to be a band teacher and upon graduating from Yankton College, she taught in Burke, South Dakota, and Glendo, Wyoming. Rachel then resided in Lyle, where she began a 42-year career as a band teacher at Lyle Public Schools. Even after her retirement in 2007, she continued to teach and instill a love of playing an instrument in young kids. Whenever Rachel had the chance, she enjoyed playing her trumpet. She was also a part of the JJ’s Pick-up Band, playing around the area at parades, nursing homes, socials or whenever asked. Rachel loved bird watching, flower gardening, and her basset hounds. Every New Year’s Eve Rachel and her friend AJ would ring in the New Year complete with an actual bell ringing. She will be dearly missed by many, including her many cousins, friends, and beloved students.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Allison and Catherine Hudson.

A gathering of friends and family will be held from 1-2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2020, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin. A celebration of life will take place later in June of 2020 to coincide with the 150th Celebration of Lyle. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.