Elizabeth Howze Hodge

Elizabeth Howze Hodge, beloved wife, mother, and educator, passed away peacefully in Plano, Texas, on June 6, 2025. She is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. Charles Hodge; her son, Clinton (Pamela) Hodge; her cherished grandchildren, Courtney, Chantal, Tyler, and Devery; and her great-grandchildren, Grey and Amir. She also leaves behind five siblings—Gwendolyn, Gloria, Benita Ann, Benjamin, III (Fran), and Jerome. Elizabeth was preceded in death by her beloved parents, the Reverend Benjamin Howze, Jr. and Margret Johnson Howze of Mobile, Alabama; her daughter, Gwendolyn Hodge; and brother, Rodney Howze. Her daughter, Gwendolyn Dewees, served as Assistant US Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas.

Elizabeth earned her bachelor’s degree from Spelman College and her master’s degree from Atlanta University. She further enriched her knowledge through further studies at Howard University and Columbia University. Elizabeth was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. As an active member, she participated in many of the youth-oriented activities planned and sponsored by the Sorority.

Throughout her distinguished career in education, Elizabeth served as a faculty member at Tyler Junior College, Jarvis Christian College, Ouachita Baptist University, Shorter College, and Philander Smith College. In addition to her work in higher education, she also made a meaningful impact as an administrator at the Montessori school in Arkansas, where she helped shape the early educational experiences of young learners. Elizabeth’s life was defined by her deep devotion to education and youth empowerment, both in her own family and in her community. As a manifestation of her devotion, Elizabeth served at various times during her life as a counselor at community centers for teenage youth, as a volunteer with the Jack and Jill and the Girl Scouts of America organizations, and a teacher’s aide assisting with the development of preteen youth.

Elizabeth was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother; and a compassionate and loyal friend. An avid reader, Elizabeth considered good reading material to be a good friend. As a statement of her life, she was a humanitarian at heart who believed in and was guided by Christian teachings in her association with others. She was eternally supportive of family and her love for her family was total and endless. Elizabeth’s kindness, wisdom and unwavering support touched countless lives and, as a life well-lived, she will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate to know her.

A dedication of life service will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 1 p.m., Ted Dickey West Funeral Home, 7990 President George Bush, Dallas, Texas 75252.