Eloise Hodge

Eloise Hodge went to be with the Lord on Friday, April 10, 2026, at the age of 93. She was born at home in Caryville, TN, the second of three children to Bart and Nancy Leach. Eloise also lived in Lake City (Rocky Top) before moving to Clinton. Later, the family moved to Knoxville where she met Ernest Hodge at Central High School. They were married at Broadway Baptist Church in 1952 and raised three children.

Eloise inherited her strong work ethic from her parents. From a young age, she worked at the White Store Grocery that her daddy managed. She had to stand on a crate to reach the cash register. Eloise also worked at Paul Parrot Shoes and Cloth Store, St. Mary's Hospital and Walmart.

Eloise was a long time member of Wallace Memorial Baptist Church and taught Sunday School for most of her adult life. She loved her church and many church activities were enjoyed over the years. Caring and serving others was a constant as well as sharing the gospel with others.

Eloise enjoyed entertaining, sewing, camping, and working in the garden. She lived the last several years of her life fighting Alzheimer's but continued trying to help and cheer others. A special thanks to Morning Pointe of Powell, Legacy Park, Life Care of Blount County and Amedisys Hospice Group. Now Eloise is healthy and happy with her Lord and Savior and the loved ones who went before her.

Eloise was preceded in death by husband, Ernest Coleman Hodge; parents, Bart and Nancy Leach; sister, Winnie Mae Lloyd; brother, Millard Owen Leach. She is survived by children, Sharon (Terry) Hicks, Steven (Laura) Hodge, Greg (Janet) Hodge. Eloise was a loving and wonderful Nana to her 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. She is also survived by sister-in-law, Frances Rose, several nieces and nephews.

Family will receive friends Tuesday, April 14th from 6-8pm at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home with funeral service following at 8pm with Rev. Kent Williams officiating. Graveside service will take place Wednesday, April 15th at Lynnhurst Cemetery, meeting at the graveside at 10:45am for an 11am service. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Wallace Memorial Building Fund, 701 Merchants Road, Knoxville, TN 37912.