Obituary of Johnnie Kate Hodges

Johnnie Kate Hodges was born March 4, 1933, to Johnny C. Williams and Nannie Mae Clark in Meridian Mississippi. That day this world became a little brighter. Johnnie grew up with her 4 loving sisters, the original Clark sisters. She attended St. Joseph Catholic schools. Johnnie had many talents such as being a caregiver, an exceptional housekeeper, a wonderful cook, and a warm spirit which allowed her to work many places providing her services. On July 15, 1952, Johnnie married Curtis Hodges, within this beautiful union 3 children were born, Gilbert, Gregory Paul, and Gena. In 1967, the family relocated to Battle Creek Michigan. Johnnie kept her children in line and looking sharp. As she would say “you don’t leave this house looking a mess”. Her many lessons and sayings have been the foundation of our family. Johnnie believed in working hard, loving hard, and not letting people take advantage of you. With all of her wit and humor, you couldn’t help but listen to her wise words. Johnnie eventually made her way back HOME to Meridian. Back in Meridian she loved sitting on her porch, hanging out with her family, and going to the casino. Johnnie would listen to the blues and you just might catch her dancing while saying “you don’t know nothing about this”. Johnnie always made everyone laugh. In 2013 as Johnnie’s health started to decline, she moved back to Battle Creek to reside with her daughter, Gena. Her care for Johnnie extended her life and gave her the opportunity to build relationships with her younger grandchildren and even great-grandchildren. What a blessing. On June 18, 2020, in Battle Creek MI, in the comfort of her home, Heaven opened its pearly gates and welcomed her home. She is now in heaven dancing with her husband, sisters, and her sons, cracking jokes and having beautiful conversations while looking down reminding her family she is at peace. Johnnie is preceded in death by her parents, Johnny and Nannie, her sons Gilbert and Gregory Paul Hodges, her sisters, Corine Price, Lucille Clark-Matthews (Leo Matthews), Bertha Mae Clark-Irby (Baimon Irby) Cleo Clark- McCoy (Freddie T. McCoy). She leaves to celebrate her life her daughter, Gena Hodges; grandchildren, Marquis, Demetrius, Rosalind, Cierra, and Nia; 13 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and family who will miss her dearly.