Louise was beloved and deeply cherished, remembered for a steady faith and a kind-hearted spirit that made others feel seen, safe, and cared for. With compassion and generosity woven into everyday life, she offered help in quiet, practical ways—guided by wisdom, strengthened by perseverance, and grounded in what she believed.
Louise pursued her GED and earned certifications for in-home health care—an early reflection of her hard-working determination and her desire to serve others well. She went on to devote herself to work as a home healthcare provider, specializing in providing care for those with disabilities in her home. In that role, her patience and gentle strength became a source of comfort, and her example remains inspirational to those who knew the dignity with which she treated every person entrusted to her care.
Louise was married to her husband Robert Hodges, and after his death she was married to Jack Gilchrist. Her family was her universe, and she adored her daughters and grandkids. One of the highest offices Louise held was being a mother and grandmother. She took joy in gathering family close, watching them thrive in their family life through grace, independence, and strength, and offering steady encouragement along the way.
She found comfort and meaning in reading the Bible, enjoyed watching her TV shows, and could often be found playing solitaire on the computer. In younger years, she loved roller skating. Above all, she treasured time spent with family—sharing stories, laughter, and jokes—often with a smile and that familiar twinkle in her eye. A good Christian woman, she leaves a legacy of faithful love and enduring devotion to those she held dear.
Louise is survived by her daughters, Robin Catrett (Jeff), Angela Matthews (Kent), and Cheryl Rutledge (Chris); her grandchildren, "Christopher" Elton Bonner, Joshua "Reagan" Matthews, "Amber" Nikole Prescott, Christopher "Trae" Rutledge, Matthew "Taylor" Rutledge, Christian Rutledge, Gabrielle "Gabby" Williamson (Peter), Lindsey "Autumn" Rutledge, and Cameron "Elijah" Rutledge; her great grandchildren, Karlie & Kaleb Morris and Sarah Williamson; her sister, Lee Emma Reed; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.
Louise was preceded in death by her husbands, Robert Hodges and Jack Gilchrist; her mother, Ethel Darnell Hunter; her father, Joe Hunter; her siblings, Irvin Hunter, Joe Hunter, Riley Hunter, Jessie Hunter, and Robert Hunter; her paternal grandparents, Elbert Hunter & Susan Candler; and her maternal grandparents, Noah Darnell & Emma Capps.
Visitation for Family and Friends will be held at 10:00 am to 11:00 am on September 15, 2026, at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Fisher Chapel, 4071 Macon Rd, Columbus, Georgia 31907. A Funeral Service to celebrate her life will follow at 11:00 am on September 15, 2026, at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Fisher Chapel, 4071 Macon Rd, Columbus, Georgia 31907. She will be laid to rest in Parkhill Cemetery with a Private Family Committal service.
