Hodges Thomas

Heaven’s east gate opened for our beloved HODGES THOMAS, on September 5, 2013 at 3:15 p.m. He was the eldest son of the late Robert and Mattie Thomas. Hodges was born on a glorious day in Columbia, South Carolina on July 7, 1921. Hodges, as he was called, was reared in Columbia, South Carolina for a short time until the family moved to Winston Salem, North Carolina. His father found work at the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Factory and he began his formal education in the public school system. The family then moved to Baltimore, Maryland on Low Street after the death of his father, who was killed in an accident in the factory. Hodges never continued his education, but came here to Baltimore and began to work to help support the family. The family, under the guidance of their mother, joined the Nazarene Temple Apostolic Church which was located on Gay Street. The family continued its membership to present day. Along with his mother and siblings, Hodges was baptized in Jesus’ name. After attending church for a while, Hodges left and began to sing in the secular circuit, along side his younger brothers, Andrew and Bunny. They sang as a group and later sang with the Staple Singers. During the years as a singer and entertainer, his religious background never left him. Hodges returned to church in the early seventies and rededicated his life back to Christ and was ordained as a Deacon in 1978. During this time he found the love of his life, Lucille Smith. They were married and spent many happy years together until her passing. You could always find Hodges at the door of the church, greeting members as they entered and exited the church. Everyone knew him, even the people who walked up and down Harford Road. In his spare time, Hodges loved to watch old western movies and ride his bike until he was hit by a car. Hodges loved to share his stories about his life experiences with his neices and nephews. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him. He leaves to celebrate his life: three sons, Robert Jr., LeVone and James; four daughters, Frances, Meridith, Ethaill and Minnie; one favorite niece, Minnie Fortune; his Pastor and care provider, Allan Fleet, Sr.; his Nazarene church family, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Hodges Thomas

July 7, 1922 - September 5, 2013