Spirit X, 46, of Essex, formerly of Milford, died peacefully Oct. 5 at Middlesex Hospital. He was born David Scott Ude on Feb. 25, 1967 to Thomas W. Ude, Sr. and the late Carol J. Anderson.

Spirit grew up in Milford and was a graduate of Jonathan Law High School. He later earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design from the University of Bridgeport and was founder and owner of Balloons By Gol-ly for more than a decade. Spirit will always be remembered for being extremely creative, well-loved, and most of all, for his free spirit. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Spirit is survived by his partner Gary Lamothe; two siblings, Thomas W. Ude, Jr., and his partner Michael Soileau of New York and Missy Hackett and her husband Eric of Orange; two nephews, Brian Taylor and Josh Hackett; aunts Suzanne Ude Boris, Diane Pellegrino, Deborah Rider, and Christine Hogan; uncles Charles Anderson and Paul Anderson; and many other loving family and friends. In addition to his mother, he was predeceased by his uncle William Ude. 

Family and friends may call Tuesday, Oct. 8 from 4 – 7:30 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford, with a memorial service immediately following at 7:30 p.m. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Spirit’s name to a charity of one’s choice. The Cody-White Funeral Home, Milford, is in charge of arrangements. To leave online condolences, visit www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.