Berniece Hodge

Marion- Mary Berniece (Rodgers) Hodge- 89, of Marion, died at 8:45 PM, Friday, January 30, 2004 at Country Acres Retirement Home in Marion. Berniece was born on October 28, 1914 in Marion to Henry Jasper & Myrtle (McAnelly) Rogers. She graduated Marion High School in 1934 and attended beauty school in Harrisburg. She married Maurice James Hodge on August 31, 1935 after four years of courtship. Their first child, Finis Leo Hodge was born September 13, 1936. The young couple then moved to and lived in Indiana for seven years. Seeking better employment, they moved to Detroit, Michigan where their second child, Judith Lynn Hodge was born August 28, 1945, just on the shirt tail of the end of the second world war. Berniece was raised in a fine Christian Home and after many happy years of marriage, Maurice found the Lord. This made their union complete. They served the Lord fervently together, until Maurices untimely death at the age of 53 in May 1968. Since that time, Berniece carried on as matriarch of the family. She nurtured her children as each married, and continued with her grandchildren. All who knew her were sure of one thingshe was a loving woman who lived the rest of her life joyfully serving the Lord. No matter her circumstance, she always had a smile that would just light up your heart. Many of her family and church family have gone on before her, but she leaves behind wonderful memories to her daughter and son. The children, grandchildren and great grandchildren have learned so much about God, love, and strength of family from her. They remain eternally grateful. May the Lord bless all that knew and loved her. Berniece was a homemaker and a lifetime member of Warder Street Baptist Church in Marion. SURVIVORS: Son & dau in law- Finis & Grace Hodge- Corona, CA Dau & son in law- Judy & Charles Robinson- Marion Seven Grandchildren Several Great Grandchildren She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one grandson, and one brother; Ralph Rogers. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, February 4, 2004 at Warder Street Baptist Church in Marion. Rev. David Brinkman will officiate. Burial will follow at East Lawn Memorial Gardens in Herrin. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until time of service, Wednesday, also at the church. Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Southern Illinois and envelopes will be available at both the church and funeral home. For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com.