Hodge Phifer, Jr

Hodge Phifer Jr., affectionately known as “June”, was born on May 12, 1938, in Knoxville, North Carolina, to the late Mammie and Hodge Phifer Sr. June proudly served his country in the Army as a paramedic for tow years. After his honorable discharge, he returned home and began working at a feed mill in Statesville, N.C. In 1971, he moved his family to Baltimore, Maryland, where he started a long and industries career in auto mechanics. He began working at Pep Boys, eventually becoming a manager, and later went on to open his own mechanic’s shop. Always driven and hardworking, he also ran a second business, restoring and cleaning floors for several large companies during the night. Eventually, he returned to management at Firestone, where he worked until his retirement. June married the love of his life, Overseer Ammie Alberta Pruitt Phifer (his doll), who preceded I him in death. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised seven children, including a beloved set of twins – Jerome and Joretta. A man of many talents and passions, June loved spending time in his garden. He took great pride in his garden. He took great Pride in his yard and was known for his endless supply of home-grown tomatoes, always encouraging everyone to “grab a bag and take some home.” He found joy in humor and was known for the laughter he and his wife shared. He especially enjoyed helping clean fish after family fishing trips with his son-in-law, Levi. June was a devoted man of faith. He was an active member of Renew Hope Christian Church, serving on the Deacon Board and singing in the choir under leadership of his wife, Overseer Ammie Phifer. Later, they joined Blessed Baptist Church under Pastor Garrett, continuing their journey together. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Overseer Ammie Phifer; his sons, Hodge Mitchell Phifer and Pastor Reggie Phifer; his parent, Hodge Sr., and Mammie Phifer; his siblings Mary Phifer, Lucille Phifer, and John Howard. Hodge leaves to cherish his memory four loving daughters: Overseer Joretta Flight (the twins), Janora (Larry) Winkler, Dewanda (Levi) Chandler, and Melinda Slater; his daughter-in-love, Samartha Phifer; and his cherished sister, Anne Williams, all of Baltimore, MD. June’s legacy continues through his grandchildren: Vonzel Phifer, Larry Hazzard, Jr. (Rochelle), Pastor Kenneth Flight Jr., Shawnique Flight, Shante Ridgeway, Shantrice Ridgeway, Raymond Ridgeway (Sherry), Ryan Ridgeway (Mia), Arnell Phifer, Ammie Greene, Shyla Phifer, Raynard Horne, Reggie Phifer, Kellen Phifer and Montrel Barber. He is also remembered by his great-grandchildren: Daprea, Michaelah, McKenzie, Kendal, Shaniya, Ryan Jr., Malachi, Kess, Karson, Riley, Madison, Monae, Russell (RJ), Mason, Faith, Skyler, Arnell Jr., Kellen Jr., and Kyren; and his great-great -children: Rashad, Zion, Dexan. He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family in Baltimore and North Carolina. June was a man who deeply loved his family and took pride in each one of them. He remined us of all the importance of togetherness, love, and laughter. His jokes, his stories, and his warm presence will be dearly missed---but we take comfort knowing he is now reunited with his beloved wife, children, and family members who have gone before him. “Restin the Lord, Deacon Phifer. Your legacy lives on in each one of us. We will miss you always.

Tributes

Hodge Phifer, Jr

May 12, 1938 - June 7, 2025