James "Jim" Norman Hodge, Sr.

James Norman “Jim” Hodge, Sr., age 85, of Lakeland, Florida passed away on Monday, January 16, 2023, at the Good Samaritan Center in Dowling Park, Florida. Mr. Hodge was born January 2, 1938 in Auburndale, Florida to Walter and Nellie (Smith) Hodge. He was an Auburndale, Florida native and served in the United States Navy as a Parachute Rigger. Jim worked 27 years as a first-class maintenance mechanic at (I.M.C.) International Mineral and Chemical in Polk County, Florida and was the owner/operator of Hodge Interprise’s Trucking Company for 12 years. He was a member of the Bell Baptist Church in Bell, Florida. Mr. Hodge is survived by his loving wife of 62 years - Arlene F. Hodge of Lakeland, Florida; Son - James N. Hodge, Jr. wife Shana of Live Oak, Florida; Sister - La Verne Phillips of Lakeland, Florida; 2 Granddaughters - Ariel Elizabeth Hodge and Jinna Reni Hodge; Numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents: Daughter - Troy Elizabeth Hodge; 3 Sisters - Mary Lyons, Peggy Gary, and June Thornton. A graveside service with Military Honors will be held 11:30 am Friday, January 20th at Auburndale Memorial Park, 1889 West Derby Avenue. A visitation prior to the graveside will be held from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at Kersey Funeral Home, 108 Lake Stella Drive, Auburndale.