James honorably served his country as a Vietnam War veteran with the Army. Following his military service, he dedicated over 30 years to working for NASA, contributing significantly to the field of space exploration.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Francis Hodo. James is survived by his devoted wife, Kathryn Williams Hodo; his daughter, Alexa Wise Hodo, and her mother, Peggy Wise Hodo; his son, Corey Betuel and his wife, Heather; and his cherished grandsons, Mason, Landon, and Austin Hodo. He also leaves behind two brothers, John Hodo and Jeremy Hodo.
James had a passion for golf, fishing, reading, sports, computers, his dogs, old cars, and Star Trek, but above all, he loved his family.
A visitation will be held on December 26, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Valhalla Funeral Home in Huntsville, located at 698 Winchester Rd NE, Huntsville, AL 35811. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life at 2:00 pm.
James will be dearly missed by all who knew him and whose lives he touched.