Earl G. Hodges, (fondly regarded as “Lover” by Thelma), 86, a resident of Naples and Collier County for 57 years, died at home on Friday, October 18, 2013 due to complications of pulmonary fibrosis. He was born in Livingston, TN on August 27, 1927, son of Willa Mae and Arlice Hodges and his step mother, Myrtle Hodges. Earl is survived by his devoted wife Thelma “Chicken” of 55 years and his sister, Virginia King Hunter of Cookeville, TN. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews including his grand nephew and associate of 13 years, Leslie King, III and Thelma’s niece Emmy Quinby, both of Naples. He had many special friends in his life including Zora, Tomas, Carol, Patty, Tim and Todd. He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, A. Houston Hodges of Manchester, TN and his aunt and uncle, Christine and Clarence Hodges of Naples. He was a Veteran of World War II, joining the Merchant Marines at the age of 17. He served in the Grave Registration during the Korean War. Earl was a graduate of Gupton Jones School of Mortuary Science. He became a Licensed Funeral Director in the State of Tennessee and Florida where he opened Earl G. Hodges Funeral Chapel in August, 1962. He was also the owner of Naples Memorial Gardens and Mausoleum for several years. Due to his generous contribution to International College in 2007, the college was renamed Hodges University. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed the outdoors. Earl was a proud Mason, Shriner and Rotarian. He also loved traveling within the USA and around the world. Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, October 23, 4:00 PM at Naples Memorial Gardens, 525 111th Avenue North. Military honors will follow. An outdoor reception will follow at the funeral home on Wednesday from 5 to 7 PM. As a tribute to Earl, please dress in casual attire. Friends are invited to call at Hodges Funeral Home on Tuesday from 11 AM to 7 PM. Donations in Earl’s memory are suggested to Collier County Junior Deputies, P.O. Box 1833, Naples, FL 34106, to Hodges University Veteran Education Fund, 2655 Northbrooke Drive, Naples, FL 34119.
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