Thomas V. Hodges Sr.

Thomas V. "Tommy" Hodges Sr. was born Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, 1931, to Dr. Thomas L. Hodges and Charlotte Mikulus Hodges in Bismarck, Arkansas. He was born in his parents' home and was delivered by his father. Tommy died Nov. 7, 2026, at National Park hospital in Hot Springs. Had he lived just 19 more days, Tommy would have celebrated his 95th birthday — and once again as on his day of his birth, his birthday would have fallen on Thanksgiving Day.

Tommy married Marlene Duncan in 1955, and together they built a life centered around family, faith and love. They were blessed with four children: Toni (Danny) McMahan, Buddy (Linda) Hodges, Tim Hodges and Beth (Steven) Robbins. Tommy leaves behind many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of friends who will forever cherish the wonderful memories he leaves behind.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Lois Hodges Canfield; his son, Tim Hodges, and a grandson, Layton Hodges.

Tommy's faith was the foundation of his life. He served faithfully at Oak Bower Church in Bismarck, Arkansas, where he was ordained as a deacon in 1964. He continued serving in that capacity until he was later ordained as an elder, a position of spiritual leadership he held until his death. His many years of faithful service reflected his deep love for God and his church family. If Tommy could speak to us today, he would say, "If you do not know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, please let today be the day you make that commitment."

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Tommy served his country from 1949 to 1952. Throughout most of his working career, he was employed as a tool and die maker, spending many years at a National Rejectors and Chamberlin Featherlite in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was also actively involved in union leadership at the plants where he worked, dedicating much of his time to advocating for others and standing up for the people he worked alongside. His strong work ethic and commitment to fairness were hallmarks of his personality.

Tommy had a quick wit and a wonderful sense of humor. His dry delivery often left people unsure of how to process his comments and stories. He delighted in making up outlandish tales for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They all loved his story about his cat that had nine lives, often begging him to tell it again for the hundredth time.

A memorial service, under the direction of Smith Funeral Home of Arkadelphia, will be held at noon Saturday, Nov. 14, at Oak Bower Church in Bismarck, Arkansas, with Brother Van Glidewell and Brother Mike Rucker officiating. This will be followed by a brief graveside service, and then a visitation meal in the fellowship hall for all to attend.

Tommy's earthly journey has ended, but his faith, his love, his laughter and the memories he created will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Arrangements are by Smith Family Funeral Home/Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel,http://www.smithfamilycares.com.

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