Charles Leon Hodges

Charles "Sonny" Leon Hodges passed away peacefully September 24th, 2026 at the age of 88. 
Charles was born in Grapevine, Texas, in 1938 to his parents, William Thomas and Gladys (Patrick) Hodges.

A Navy veteran, Charles was proud of his service on the USS Shangri-La aircraft carrier. He had a love of learning and earned a Batchelor of Arts from Texas Wesleyan University as well as studies at Dallas Baptist University and Tarrant County College. Sonny retired from General Motors in Arlington, Texas, after over three decades of employment. He was a long time member of the Unitarian Universalist Church in Fort Worth. Charles was also the father of four children and a "Poppy" to several grand children. 

"Sonny" was unique and quite the character! He enjoyed meeting new people and could chat with anyone about anything. He would tell lively and sometimes unbelievable stories about his past adventures. For some, you may had heard those stories more than once but they always made you smile. 

Charles delighted in sharing the great outdoors with everyone. He loved planning group campouts, especially for those who had never been camping before. When his children were growing up, he was known to take all the neighborhood kids on outings to the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge or to a creek bed to simply explore and hunt for fossils.

Charles had a love of history. He was never one to pass up Texas Historical Markers on family road trips. He enjoyed visiting our State Parks often. His travels brought him to West Texas many times for extended lengths. He spent several years living near the border in Presidio, Texas, a place he spoke of very fondly. His years spent there making new friends and practicing his Spanish were some of his most cherished memories. A place he truly treasured was Big Bend National Park. The stunning vistas and stark beauty was something he found awe inspiring and enjoyed tremendously.

Our dad had a passion for gardening and all plants. A passion that led him to TCC later in life to study Horticulture. Tending to a garden brought him much joy.

In honor of our Dad, please remember to love your neighbor with your whole heart. Walk in their shoes, learn about their values and let differences spark curiosity and conversation. Always offer a helping hand to those in need and step up when others will not.

Be a friend to all animals. Adopt a pet, rescue the injured, give kindness to strays and consider donating your time at an animal shelter. How someone treats animals says more than words ever could. 

Share a meal with family and friends as often as you can. Those moments of good food, fellowship and conversation will be some of the best memories you will make.

Nurture and protect nature. The world around us is remarkable. Spend time outdoors, gaze at the night sky, go hiking, take a friend camping and cook over an open fire. Take a moment to pause and admire the trees, study the leaves and marvel in their beauty.

Our dad was loved by so many. He will be missed immensely yet his memory and life lessons will be carried on for generations. 

In his remembrance, please consider donating to The Big Bend Conservancy.