Garden Parties are held each summer to invitees who have made a positive impact in their community.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to reports of a lorry alight on the M20 London-bound and first aid was given to one person for minor smoke inhalation.
Ms Hudgell said during the time they sat in traffic, she was worried about those involved in the incident.
On returning home, she said the family were as “flat as pancakes”.
But she said Tony had kept his spirits up throughout.
She said: “He was true Tony style. You are sitting in three and a half hours of not moving and he was singing away and people were chatting to him.”
Due to further surgery she is undergoing next week, Ms Hudgell was not sure when they would be able to organise a return visit.
