Laquita Teal Hudson

Laquita Teal Hudson, age 61, of Thomaston, passed away on January 23, 2026, at Providence Health and Rehab in Thomaston, Georgia, leaving behind a life defined by service, courage, and deep love for her family.

Born on March 11, 1964, in Thomaston, Georgia, Laquita felt a lifelong calling to help others — a calling that led her into a career in emergency services. Her work in EMS was more than a profession; it was her passion and her purpose. She began her EMS career in Upson County, where she quickly gained the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of countless community members for her calm strength and compassionate care. She later continued her dedicated service with Spalding County, where she served both as an EMS professional and at times as a firefighter. Laquita approached every call with bravery and an unshakable commitment to those in need.

Among all her accomplishments, Laquita was most proud of being a mother. Her son, Troy James (TJ) Smith IV and was the light of her life. She loved him fiercely and supported him with boundless pride.

Laquita is preceded in death by her mother, Reba Catherine Phillips.

She is survived by her beloved son, Troy James Smith IV (TJ), father, Loren Teal, and stepmother Gail Teal, sister, Christy Teal Houston (Keith), brother, Marty Teal and her nephews, Nathan Houston and Nicholas Teal, whom she loved dearly

Laquita will be remembered for her generous spirit, her strength, her devotion to her community, and the love she poured into her family. Her impact will live on in the lives she touched — both on and off duty.

A service honoring her life will be held on Thursday January 29th 2026, 2:00 PM at the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home with interment to follow at Upson Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home and  invites all who knew and loved her to join in celebrating her life and legacy.