Roger was born on November 25, 1948, to the late Jesse Wilbur Hodge and Alda Kathleen Huss Hodge. In addition to his parents, he also is preceded in death by his brother, Robert “Bob” Brice Hodge.
Roger was a proud and dedicated serviceman who answered the call to duty when he enlisted in the United States Army in August 1966. His service took him to Vietnam, where he courageously served his country during a time of great conflict.
Roger demonstrated extraordinary bravery and selflessness in combat. During an ambush, he risked his own life to come to the aid of a wounded fellow serviceman and successfully helped rescue him. For this heroic act, Roger was awarded the Silver Star, one of the United States military's highest decorations for valor.
His commitment and courage were further recognized with two Purple Hearts and two Air Medals, honors that reflected both the sacrifices he endured and his distinguished service in Vietnam.
Survivors include his son, Gregory “Greg” L. Hodge (Lisa); daughter, Melissa H. Jennings (Brent); grandchildren, Haley A. Jennings, Rachel Jones, and Luke Johnson; brother, Jim Hodge; sister, Sandra Broughton (Steve); as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park, 2205 Williamsburg Drive, Gastonia, NC 28054, US, on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm, followed by a Funeral Service at the same location on August 28, 2026, at 2:00 pm with Danny Rhodes, Colonel - U.S. Army (Retired).
The Committal Service with Honors from the U.S. Army will take place at Gaston Memorial Park, 2205 Williamsburg Drive, Gastonia, NC 28054, US, on August 28, 2026.
Flowers are welcome, but if you feel compelled to donate in lieu of flowers, please make a donation in honor of Roger to the wounded warrior project at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/Default.aspx?tsid=40275&campaignSource=ONLINE&source=BS26019AAABREAA&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1755672625&gbraid=0AAAAADg1WjqPByAHvnv53mVMSXekOg0ut&gclid=CjwKCAjwtKrUBhAhEiwAr77Zoi1VKRMoEFbKF87SLP30bUrFqOq0zxxmTixTYO6vwjGx1gk2ICksVhoCo-sQAvD_BwE
