Virginia M. Hodge

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William D. Hodge I; her parents, Elmer and Blanche Pryor; her daughter, Sandra Reaves; and her sons-in-law, Barry Betz, Raymond Marek II, Edward Ott, and Jeffrey Bergman.

She leaves behind a loving family who will always cherish her memory: her children, Patricia Ott, Mark Hodge, Virginia Bergman, Diane (Mike) Morris, and Bill (Lynn) Hodge II. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Aaron, Dawn, and Shannon Ott; Christopher (Sarah Graves) Hodge; Amanda Hodge; Matthew (Jessica) Hodge; Raymond Marek III; Elizabeth (Sam) Wright; Brandon Reaves; Shawn, Jeffrey, and Katie Bergman; Michael Betz; Kristen (Jacob) Kienitz; and William Hodge III. She was blessed with 28 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her great joy and pride.

Mama Hodge was a woman whose warmth and vibrant personality could fill any room the moment she walked in. She truly loved everyone she met and had a special gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and part of her extended family. A lifetime member of the Order of the Eastern Stars and the Fairview Heights Elks Lodge #664, she believed deeply in fellowship, friendship, and community. Mama Hodge enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, playing bingo, a lively game of spades, and even a round of dominoes on the computer. She never missed an opportunity to go out to eat, especially for breakfast, and was a familiar and friendly face at the Main Street Restaurant in Belleville, where she loved to visit and socialize. Above all, Mama Hodge knew how to enjoy life and share that joy with others. Many will remember her not only for her laughter and unforgettable spirit, but also for her famous pea salad. It was a dish she proudly shared with family and friends, so much so that, as a special tribute, her family chose to include the recipe in her memory, just one more way Mama Hodge continues to bring people together.

Mom’s Pea Salad

Everyone who knew Mama Hodge knew about her famous pea salad. It was a favorite at family gatherings and something she loved to share with those around her. In her memory, we’re including her recipe so others can continue enjoying one of the many simple things she made with love.

Ingredients

• 2 (15 oz) cans of sweet peas, drained

• 3 boiled eggs

• ½ large white or yellow onion

• 4–5 tablespoons Miracle Whip

Directions

Pour the drained peas into a large mixing bowl. Dice the boiled eggs and add them to the peas. Dice the onion by hand and add it to the bowl. Add 4–5 tablespoons of Miracle Whip, then mix everything together until well combined.

Enjoy and share with family and friends—just like Mama Hodge always did.

Serves: 6–8

Visitation will be held at Lake View Funeral Home, 5000 North Illinois Street, Fairview Heights, IL 62208, on March 15, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, with a second visitation at the same location on March 16, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A Funeral Service will take place at Lake View Funeral Home on March 16, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a Committal Service at Lake View Memorial Gardens.

Donations may be made to Fairview Heights Elks Lodge #664, 9480 Old Lincoln Trail, Fairview Heights, Illinois 62208.