Wanda Hodges

Wanda Lee Gibson Hodges, 81, longtime resident of Jacksonville, passed away January 25, 2011, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Marshall, Missouri, one of six daughters of the late Estil Robert and Mary (Arthur) Gibson.

Wanda was a longtime member of Southside Baptist Church and a faithful Baptist Hospital Auxiliary volunteer. She was a wonderful mother, a loving champion to her grandchildren, a lifelong friend and playmate to her sisters, a most special Aunt Wanda to her nieces and nephews and a fun and supportive companion to her many friends. A true southern lady, Wanda’s hospitality extended to anyone who found their way to her home.

She was predeceased by her husband of 42 years, M.L. “Bim” Hodges and son, Ben Hodges Sr.

Surviving are three daughters, Rockie Jenkins (Mark), Dale Horne and Julia Geiger, a sister, Pat Denzel (Chuck), a brother-in-law, Albert Lay Jr., 6 grandchildren, Kenny Jenkins (Paula), Joseph Geiger, Serena Tholen (Vic), Marcus Jenkins (Kimberly), Ben Hodges Jr. (Amber), Jacquelyn Terry, 5 great-grandchildren, Joel Mosley, Morgan Carter, Alexis, Aubrey and Madison Jenkins, and other loving relatives and many friends, including her best friend, Glenice Morris.

Visitation will be from 10:30 – 11:30 AM on Friday, January 28, 2011 at Southside Baptist Church, 1435 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. A celebration of her life will follow after visitation at 11:30 am. Pastor Gary Webber will officiate. She will be laid to rest between her husband and son in Greenlawn Cemetery.

Memorials in her name may be directed to NE FL Community Hospice, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257.

Arrangments by Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 4115 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonville, FL.