Hodge’s life began on Sept. 20, 1925, in Guntown, Miss., the son of Vester and Anna Mae (Cook) Blassingame.

He served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II.

He was united in marriage to the former Dorothy Petri on Sept. 9, 1961, in Au Gres.
Hodge learned to play the guitar at a very young age and was very musical.  He played guitar for more than 70 years. Hodge used his gift of music as his ministry along with his wife as they pastored Victory Tabernacle Church in Dowagiac.

He accepted Christ at the age of 12 and was a lifelong witness for his Lord and Savior.
Hodge used his construction knowledge to build additions to the church and build upon his brother J.V.’s original church.

He and Dorothy served as evangelists early in their ministry.

Hodge, 84, was a tireless worker for the Lord and brought lots of fun and good memories to church fellowship. He played softball at the age of 80 and he was the church’s unofficial “food coordinator.”

Hodge’s loving family includes: his wife of 48 years, Dorothy Blassingame of Dowagiac; his sister, Margaret Huey of Tennessee; several nieces and nephews; and their church family.

Hodge was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, from the Cass County Medical Care Facility, Cassopolis.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; sister, Jannie Bell Floyd; and brothers, Charles and J.V. Blassingame.

His family will gather with friends on Thursday, 5-9 p.m., and Friday, 1-2 p.m. at Victory Tabernacle, where his funeral service will be held on Friday at 2 p.m. led by Bishop Dan Coleman and Pastor Jerry Jackson.

He will be laid to rest in Mission Hills Cemetery, Niles.

Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to Victory Tabernacle Church.
Yazel and Clark Chapel is serving the family. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Hodge at www.yazel-clark.com.