John W Hodnett Jr.

John William Hodnett Jr (Papa John) age 89 of Hoover Alabama went peacefully to his eternal resting place on March 4, 2017. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend to all. John was a faithful follower and servant of his Lord and Savior, Born June 6, 1927 in Majestic Kentucky, He graduated high school at 16. He went on to graduate from Virginia Military Institute) with a Civil Engineering degree. John proudly served his country as an Army Ranger in the Korean War as First Lieutenant, in the 101st Airborne Division. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, and the Combat Infantry Badge. John later achieved the rank of Captain in the Army Reserves. He worked for U.S. Steel for over 30 years. After retiring, John worked for The American Red Cross as a Facilities Manager. He was an avid Platelet donor and at one time held the state record. He married Mary Anne Quinnelly in June, 11 1951 and they had four daughters Cindy, Pat, Susan and Mimi. John and his family built the 5th house in what is now known as the City of Hoover. As his family grew, so did the small community where they lived. John and other residents started a volunteer fire department, hired the first police officer, served as President of the city council and served as the Mayor of Hoover for 6 years. John is survived by his sister Mary Alice Tunnell , his two daughters Pat Hodnett Wilderman (Bill) and Mimi Hodnett Smith (Russell).Grandchildren Kristine Pieper, Jonathon Gorforth ( Joanie ), Stephanie Haygood (Ryan), Sarah Goforth , Katie Sue Harris, Michael and Mathew Smith. Great Grandchildren, Sophia, Audrey, Miriam and Nora, Allyson, Carson, Cameron, and Talon., He was preceded in death by his parents John and Ella Hodnett, the love of his life Mary Anne Hodnett, his daughters Cindy Goforth (Dan) and Susan Harris. John was an active member, Deacon, and beloved Sunday school teacher, the of Shades Mountain Independent Church family and also an active member of the Hoover Senior Center, and served as a board member for the Tenco Credit Union. He also was the ultimate Alabama football fan , supported the Hoover Bucs, and never missed his grandchildren’s games. Visitation will be held at Shades Mountain Independent Church at 2281 Old Tyler Road, Hoover on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. to noon, celebration of his life at noon with military graveside service to follow at Elmwood Cemetery “ Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all ” Philippians 4:4