On Thursday, May 23, 2019, Dr. Joshua Stephen Hodge, loving husband and father of two children, died peacefully at home in Knoxville TN, at the age of 35. His body succumbed to Glioblastoma brain cancer despite all treatments.
Josh was born on January 30, 1984 in Birmingham, AL to Norman and Deborah (Ray) Hodge. He attended Shades Valley High School and graduated from Auburn University in 2006. With an encouraging nudge he pursued his master’s in history at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. Afterwards, he took his love of history to the University of Tennessee where he recently completed a doctorate with his dissertation titled, “Alabama’s Public Wilderness: Reconstruction Politics, Natural Resources, and the End of the Southern Commons, 1866-1905”.
After receiving his terminal diagnosis in July 2017, Josh continued to remain an active historian. He presented at conferences, published a book review and an article, and advanced in writing his dissertation. All the while, resuming, his work as editor for his forthcoming book, a collection of stories and myths about the life of Cas Walker, titled “Cas Walker: Stories on His Life and Legend”. The book will be published by UT Press and is set for release in September of 2019.
Josh married his best friend and love, Erica Spencer, in August of 2009. Josh and Erica had a collaborative and caring relationship. It was based on mutual support, open communication, and a deep love for each other. He was adored and loved by all who knew him. Josh thrived on the exchange of interesting ideas with his friends and colleagues and his smile would light up their day. He valued all his relationships very closely.
Josh is now reunited with his daughter, Harper Dylan, who proceeded him in death. He is survived by his wife Erica, his daughter Hazel Leigh, his parents Norm and Deb, his brothers Christopher and Clint (Melissa), and mother in-law Linda Carol Spencer. Josh will also be forever remembered by his numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, June 23rd, 2019 from 1-3 p.m., at the historic Sloss Furnaces East Room, located on 20 32nd St N, Birmingham AL, 35222.
Anyone wanting to contribute photographs for the service may send physical copies to: 1918 5th Ave S, Irondale, AL 35210
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider a donation to an award foundation that is in the process of being set up in Josh’s name at the University of Tennessee. Friends and colleagues are going through proper channels to ensure the endowment is long-lasting. More about the Joshua S Hodge Award will be forthcoming.
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