Rhonda R. Hudnell

Rhonda Renee Hudnell, affectionately known as “Be Be,” was born on August 22, 1951, to the late Evelyn Hudnell and William Anderson. She was lovingly raised by her devoted grandparents, Horace Sr. and Emma Hudnell, who also preceded her in death. On June 6, 2025, Rhonda peacefully transitioned from this life in the comfort of her meticulously kept home. She proudly resided at 1521 Rothwell Terrace, in the heart of Lamokin Village for 39 years. Educated in the Chester Upland School District, Rhonda was a vibrant and unforgettable spirit. She loved to sing, dance, and above all else, bring family and friends together. Her home was the site of countless joyful gatherings, almost every weekend—because to Be Be, family was everything. Though she never had biological children of her own, Be Be helped raise many children throughout the family and community with a deep sense of care and discipline. She was a loving second mother to her bonus daughter, Keonna Morton of Chester, Pennsylvania. Widely known as one of the best childcare providers in the city, Be Be set high standards—children had to be clean, properly dressed, and well cared for. If not, you could expect a politely worded note pinned to your child’s diaper bag—and maybe a phone call if you were even a minute late: “Where you at?” Be Be was also a gifted hair stylist. Armed with her trusty straightening comb, curling irons, and a jar of Blue Magic, she would transform your hair like you were headed to prom. She had her own signature technique—dampen the hair first, press it out with a sizzle, and finish with tight curls (fishhooks and all) that could last for weeks. And those rollers…..If you know, you know—some of us are still rocking those styles today. Rhonda was known for her sense of humor, her honesty, and her incredibly high standards of cleanliness—earning her the family-given title of having “OCD” (over compulsive disorder) when it came to tidiness. She was preceded in death by her brothers: James, Horace Jr., Donald, Ronald, Nathaniel, Larry, Raymond Hudnell, and Kenneth Anderson; sisters: Gloria and Doreen Hudnell; sister-in-law’s: Harriet and Carol Hudnell; and her beloved Aunt Mildred Queen. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and lasting memories. Those who will forever cherish her include: • Brothers: Harold Hudnell, Joel (Diana) Hudnell of Chester, PA, and Morris Jr. of Tacoma, WA • Sisters: Nina Hudnell, Janice Adams, Marleen Anderson (Chester, PA), and Marsha Sterling (Philadelphia, PA) • Sister-in-law: Pamela Hudnell • Bonus daughter: Keonna Morton (Chester, PA) • Bonus families: The Walkers, the Hills, and the Stokes • A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, and a special friend, James Swift ⸻ Rhonda’s life was a light to many—filled with purpose, pride, and profound love. Her memory will remain in our hearts and homes, always.

Rhonda R. Hudnell

August 22, 1951 - June 6, 2025