A lifelong educator, musician, and television pioneer, Janie dedicated her life to enriching the lives of others through music, education, and community service. She graduated from Shortridge High School, then she earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Indiana University and later received a Master of Science degree from Butler University.
Janie was a pioneer in bringing music education to television, first in Hagerstown, Maryland, and later in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She became a familiar and beloved face to children throughout central Indiana as the host of The Janie Show on WTTV, where she shared the joy of music and learning from 1963 to 1986. Her warmth, enthusiasm, and gift for connecting with young audiences left a lasting impression on generations of viewers.
Teaching was Janie's true calling. During a distinguished 37-year career, she taught music to kindergarten through eighth-grade students in Indianapolis, Indiana, and North Bergen, New Jersey. She inspired thousands of students with her passion for music, creativity, and encouragement. Her dedication was recognized with Teacher of the Year honors, the ABC (Above & Beyond the Call of Duty) Award, and induction into the Hall of Fame as a Pioneer in Television.
Her commitment to serving others extended well beyond the classroom. Janie volunteered with Wheeler Mission, the Indianapolis Public Library, and Second Presbyterian Church's Kids Unlimited program along with being an usher for many years. She also devoted many years to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, serving as Junior Symphony Lollipop Concert Chairman, a Circle Theatre tour guide, a Music Stand volunteer, a member of the North Group Executive Board, and a Discovery Concerts greeter.
Janie's greatest joy was sharing her love of music, learning, and service with others. Her favorite game was Bridge of which she was a life master. She will be remembered for her generous spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and the countless lives she touched as a teacher, television personality, mentor, and volunteer.
She is survived by her sons, David (Romano) Hodge and Matt (Jill) Hodge; her cousin, Carol Jacobson; her cousin Laura (Jason) Gardner and their children, Farrah and Isaac; her cousin Sheri (David) Jones and their children, Andrew and Matthew; and her cousin Greg Jacobson. She also leaves behind dear family, friends, former students, colleagues, and members of the community who were blessed to know her.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Carrie, Dana, Sheri, Mary Ann, Home Helpers, The Restoracy of Carmel and Legacy Hospice for the compassionate care, friendship, and support they gave to Janie.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Wheeler Mission, or Indy Reads, organizations that reflected Janie's lifelong love of music, education, and serving others.
Friends and family may gather at Second Presbyterian Church for visitation Wednesday, August 19th 11am-2pm and 4pm-7pm. Additional visitation will be on Thursday, August 20th 11am-1pm at Second Presbyterian Church with a service that follows at 1pm. Private Burial.
Messages for the family may be left by voicemail or text at 317-257-8480.
Janie Woods Hodge leaves a legacy of kindness, compassion, and joyful music that will continue to resonate through the lives of all who knew her.
