Eugene Hodge

The Life & Legacy of Eugene Hodge

Eugene entered this world on December 26, 1951, in Merritt Island, FL; born to Thomas Hodge and Ida Boldin Hodge. Eugene’s parents passed away when he was a young boy and his aunts Julia and Clara Hodge raised him into a wholesome young man. Eugene attended Mt. Olive African Methodist Episcopal Church in Merritt Island, FL, where he was baptized at an early age. He enjoyed teaching Sunday School to the younger children. Eugene’s favorite scripture was Psalm 23.

Eugene attended the Brevard County Public School System, graduating in 1970 from Merritt Island High School. In 1972, Eugene joined the United States Navy and enlisted in Jacksonville, FL. Eugene was able to see the world while serving his country — he visited Iceland, Rome and Italy, just to name a few places. Eugene worked as an Aviation Warfare Specialist. He consistently upheld the highest standards of operational readiness, contributing directly to the safety, reliability and effectiveness of naval aircraft systems. His exemplary conduct is reflected in the awarding of four Good Conduct Medals, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Navy “E” Ribbon, two National Defense Service Medals, and his continued commitment to service is evidence by the Armed Forces Reserve Medal. His service exemplified the core values of the US Navy: Honor, Courage and Commitment. In 1993, Eugene retired after serving 21 years in the NAVY, GO BLUE!

In 1978, he married a beautiful young woman named Gloria J. Davis. The two of them worked closely to build a loving home for their three children. Eugene loved his family dearly and made sure they received what they needed and wanted. Eugene was an introvert at heart surrounded by a family full of extroverts. He would just sit back at family gatherings and observe as his wife, children, grandchildren and family would fellowship, as he would just shake his head and smile.

After his time served with the United States Navy, Eugene embarked on a new career path for 15 more years by working for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, the Florida Department of Corrections and the State of Florida Hospital in Macclenny, until he decided to fully retire in 2017. Eugene was a hard worker and dedicated his life to making sure his family was taken care of and loved. Eugene instilled in his children and grandchildren that education and hard work would be the key to their success. Eugene loved his family and he is truly going to be missed.

On March 23, 2026, GOD dispatched His angel to bring Eugene home to his eternity resting place, where a multitude of other angels were there to greet him at Heaven’s gates. This included his parents: Thomas Hodge and Ida Boldin Hodge; his brother: Thomas Hodge, Jr.; his aunts: Julia Hodge and Clara Hodge; his mother-in-law: Bonnie Ree Battle; and his brother-in-law: Wade Battle.

His heart belonged to his devoted wife of 47 years Gloria J. Hodge. He leaves precious memories of love to: his children: Carldernett Davis, Angelnett Walsh (James) and Eugene Hodge II (Gina); his grandchildren: Michela L. Walsh, Andrew Gross, Giancarlo Walsh, Sean C. Hodge and Mia L. Walsh; his sisters-in-law: Barbara J. Bush (Frank), Rachel D. Barkley (Leroy), Ronna Griffin and Rochelle Griffin; his brothers-in-law: John H. Davis (Tawanna), Joseph Battle, II, and Ronnie “Griff” Griffin. Eugene is also survived by a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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