Marilyn Jean Hodge

Marilyn passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Thursday, September 20, 2012. She was born in Los Angeles, the only child to Virginia and George Ayvazian. They moved to Biola, Ca in 1937, to be closer to family. After graduating from Central High School, she attended the University of Southern California, where she was affiliated with the Chi Omega Sorority.

Upon graduation, she returned to Fresno to begin her teaching career. After a few years of teaching, she met and married her beloved husband of 50 years, Karney Hodge. Together, they made a loving home for their three children, Ginny, Tom, and Carolyn and a variety of animals. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her commitment to the community was continous. She was a member of the Holiday Boutique Guild, Women's Symphony League, USC Trojan League, Local chapter of Chi Omega, and chaired Teens Terrific.

Her true passions in life were reading, traveling, and gardening. She was a voracious reader, with a curious mind. Her travels took her around the globe where she enjoyed the experiences of different cultures. If she was not globe trotting, you could always find her in her garden. However, her real focus throughtout her life was her family.

Her warm heart, genuine smile, and easy disposition will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Karney Hodge.

Marilyn is survived by her three children, Ginny Shelton and her husband Jim, Tom Hodge and his wife Kathleen, Carolyn Hodge; and three grandchildren, Katherine Shelton, CoCo Shelton, and Taylor Hodge.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Marilyn's life at Fort Washington Country Club, on Monday, October 1, 2012, from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to San Joaquin River Parkway, 11605 Old Friant road, Fresno, 93730 or to SPCA, 103 S. Hughes, Fresno, 93706.