Sean Patrick Hodges

Sean Patrick Hodges, 52, passed away on April 25, 2026. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on February 4, 1974, Sean was the son of Margaret Mary and William Walter Hodges. He later made his home in Waddell, Arizona, carrying with him the steady values of family and the enduring pull of where he began.

From early on, Sean paired determination with a willingness to learn, earning an Associates degree at Motorcycle Mechanics Institute—an education that suited both his hands-on talent and his adventurous spirit. That same drive followed him throughout his working life, where he was known as a construction inspector and a true “Jack of all trades.” Hard-working and capable, he was always ready to expand his skill set in whatever specific areas were needed to meet the task before him, bringing both wisdom and practical insight to the work he took on.

Sean’s life was deeply rooted in the people he loved. He is survived by his spouse, Toni Meritt; his children Nicholas Hodges (Tiffany), Sabrena Carter (Eric), and Storm DeLong (Erin); and also Amber Meritt Campbell and Joseph Meritt. He was a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Margaret Hodges; his brothers Kevin Hodges (Natalie), Bill Hodges (Paula), and James Keairns (Heidi); and his sisters Margie Vaughn, Toni Zach (Tom), and Vicki Hodges. Sean was preceded in death by his father, Bill Hodges, and his sister, Terry Keairns.

Those who knew Sean remember a beloved presence marked by compassion and an easy humor. He loved to make people laugh, and his warmth had a way of easing a room. He carried a free spirit and an intuitive nature—earning the nickname “the eagle eye,” because he saw what others didn’t. Many will also remember his beautiful blue eyes and great smile, a reflection of the kindness and steadiness he offered to others.

Sean found joy in the things that made life feel wide open: music, guitar, baseball, riding side-by-side, and camping. Whether sharing a laugh, strumming a guitar, or heading outdoors, he brought a sense of genuine enjoyment to the moments that mattered most. He also held dual citizenship in Ireland, a meaningful part of his identity and story.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the White Tanks Regional Park Group Campground around a campfire on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 5 PM, and also on Saturday, July 25, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.