Marla Hudgens Obituary, Death – Marla Jordan Hudgens (DaVee), 40, a strong leader, devoted mother, and fantastic friend died on November 16, 2022. Marla was followed on the next step of their family’s trip by her three gorgeous children, Christopher Jay (3) and twins Faye Jordan and Gwen Jacqueline (6 months). “My goal is to live such that every day, year, moment, connection, conversation, and crisis serves as raw material for me to become a truer, more beautiful version of myself,” she adds. Glennon Doyle of Untamed fame.
Marla was born on January 24, 1982 in Flagstaff, Arizona. She possessed several titles in her magnificent but brief life: daughter, sister, friend, teammate, coach, counsel, and, most significantly, mother. Marla’s desire to make the world a more welcoming, just, and enjoyable place was genuine. Her distinct point of view, sense of humour, and tenacity enabled her to have such an impact on so many people. Marla was a loving mother who took much delight in her children. Christopher was born in Phoenix, Arizona on April 24, 2019. Chris, like his mother, was an inquisitive, charming, and energetic youngster with boundless energy. Chris, like his mother, was devoted to his friends, always present to support, lift, and congratulate them on any occasion, great or small. He was intelligent beyond his years and formed numerous intimate relationships with family, friends, and carers during his brief life. Chris’s passion for swimming and autos was only surpassed by his devotion for his twin sisters.
Faye and Gwen were born in Phoenix, Arizona on May 19, 2022. Marla nicknamed the girls “Hamburger” and “Hot Dog,” since Faye was shorter and rounder than Gwen, who was taller and slimmer. Faye’s smile brightened every room she entered, and she was especially cheery at mealtime. Gwen was just the Queen. She was commanding and aggressive, but she always led with a grin. Marla’s passion for soccer began at a young age because she is a natural athlete and fierce competitor. Marla could compete with the finest on the field, from high school championships to adult club leagues, and even with guys who misjudged her tiny stature. Her love of soccer and youth sports led her to the North Central Phoenix Madison Futbol Club, where she served on the Board of Directors and was the Director of Girls Coaching.
She started with no female teams and expanded to 14 female teams in two levels. Long-time coach Marla found inspiration in the mentorship ties she formed with these young ladies both on and off the soccer field. She adored her comrades and the sense of belonging they provided. Each season, she coached two ages, referring to her teams as “Bigs” and “Littles.” She liked seeing her athletes’ enthusiasm and self-esteem soar. Marla’s competitive spirit and yearning for justice push her to a prosperous legal career. She graduated with honors from Gonzaga University in 2004 and attended the William S. Boyd School of Law at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. Her legal career began as a law clerk for Nevada Supreme Court Justice James W. Hardesty, who became a mentor to her later in life. Marla began her legal career as an associate attorney with Lionel Sawyer & Collins in Las Vegas in 2011. Later, she joined the law firm Lewis Roca and relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, where she was named Partner in 2017.
Marla was a commercial litigator who also practiced administrative and regulatory law. Marla was highly regarded as being among the best in her field. Her clients and coworkers adored her, and she had a good reputation in the legal community. Marla swiftly built a reputation for honesty, competence, and skill during her brief legal career. She was well-known for her rare blend of tenacity and generosity of spirit. She worked relentlessly on her clients’ behalf and served as a guide and advocate for other young female attorneys in her area. Marla was deeply involved in her community. She was emphatic that everyone of us possesses distinct gifts that, when strengthened by community, have the ability to propel us to greatness. She was Vice President of the Phoenix Lions Club, an organization that helps the blind, crippled, and elderly.
Marla oversaw a scholarship program for high school graduates who desired to continue their study after graduation. Marla will be honored by the Phoenix Lions Club by naming this scholarship program after her. In addition to her professional and community accomplishments, Marla was a fantastic friend who maintained more relationships than should be humanly possible. She was always willing to listen, offer excellent advice, and brighten your day with her contagious laugh. Marla will be sorely missed. She left our earth in better condition than she found it. May we remember her stunning smile, lively attitude, smart mind, strong work ethic, uncanny wit, and timely sense of humor for the rest of our lives. We may take solace in knowing that she is guiding Chris, Faye, and Gwen on their next adventure.
Marla was preceded in death by her sister, Lexa DaVee, and her dogs, Gus and Duke. Marla is remembered fondly by her parents, Tom and Patti DaVee, her dog Cheddar, her Grandma Marge Elias, and her extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and devoted friends, adored athletes, coworkers, and the many, many other community members who were affected by her influence. Please email Cousin Tiffany at marlajordanhudgens@gmail.com to share memories with the family for inclusion in a family album. Bethany Bible Church will hold a Celebration of Life on December 17, 2022, at 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome. Please make a donation to the Madison Futbol Club Coach Marla Memorial Scholarship in place of flowers.
