James J. Hodge

James Jacques Hodge was born in Dothan, AL, on December 12, 1928. He was the third child of the late Robert and Vassie Hodge, brother of deceased siblings, Robert B. and Mary Louise Hodge Nesbitt. He is survived by his loving wife, Emia Lousie Hodge and a host of family and friends.

At the age of eight, Jacques and his family moved from Dothan, AL to Georgetown, SC and later moved to Jersey City, NJ. There his parents settled in and went about the business of raising their children. Jacques attended public schools, and in 1946, graduated from William Dickerson High School. After graduating from high school, he entered the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1950. On his return home, he enrolled at Central State University located in Wilberforce, OH and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1954. He went onto earn three masters degrees: the first in Administration and Supervision from Columbia University located in New York City, NY in 1963, the second in Student Personnel Service from Seton Hall University located in South Orange, NJ in 1974 and the third in Rehabilitation Counseling from Kean University located in Union, NJ in 1980.

Jacques experimented in several employment fields before choosing a career in education at Abraham Clark High School in Roselle, NJ. He enjoyed working in the educational arena, particularly with young people. He could often be found counseling students on a variety of topics. This was what Jacques Hodge was all about. He was the kind of man who wanted to make a difference in young people’s lives by helping them become the best that they could be. He strongly believed that all children could be successful in life with the right motivation and guidance.

In December 1980, James Jacques Hodge married Emia Louise Hugh. Up until their retirement, they made their home in South Orange Village, NJ. They later relocated to Holly Hill, FL where he was involved in a number of community activities.

Over the past 38 years, their love for each other never wavered. Emia was always by her husband’s side and catered to his every need. Their love for one another was unconditional and one could quickly recognize it on entering their home.

Jacques was a controversial man who always enjoyed a good conversation and loved to debate the issues on a variety of topics. He was the kind of man who was always ready to help those in need. Jacques will be missed by all who came to know and love him. A visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:00am on September 22, 2016 at Volusia Memorial Funeral Home, Ormond Beach, the funeral service will follow at 10:00 am. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.volusiamemorialfunerals.com Arrangements under the direction of Volusia Memorial Funeral Home, Ormond Beach, FL.