Shirley Grace Hodges, 89, of Lawrence, died Wednesday, June 16, 2021. She was born February 28, 1932, in Lawrence, the daughter of Lemuel and Mary (Curtis) Rothberger.
Shirley graduated from Liberty Memorial High School and attended the University of Kansas where she was a member of Sigma Kappa Sorority. In 1951 Shirley married Ervin E. Hodges and they were blessed with 68 years together. Shirley was a proud homemaker as she supported Erv’s 23-year military career and later civilian opportunities. She often shared memories of the 22 moves that she successfully orchestrated. Though Shirley remained flexible for Erv’s commitments, she was always active in her community. While stationed in Manassas, Virginia, she taught elementary school and was a hospital volunteer with the American Red Cross. She studied art history, successfully completed some oil paintings of her own, and was a docent at the Greenville, South Carolina Art Museum. She also volunteered as a docent at the Providence, Rhode Island Zoo and often ventured to schools with a bag of snakes or furry creatures to share.
Upon returning home to Lawrence, Shirley was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, FZ Chapter of PEO, Meadowlark Garden Club, West Side Study Club, and the Alvamar Country Club Women’s Golf Association. She was blessed with loyal friends in several bridge groups and enjoyed new friends at Brandon Woods and Bridge Haven.
Shirley is survived by son Mark Hodges, and daughter Cynthia Fritzel (Tim). Five grandchildren; Erin Kozitza (Tim), Shannon Hodges (Isaias), Patrick Fritzel (Molly), Rebecca Koester (Patrick), Kylie Powell (Jason), and 11 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Erv Hodges in 2019. Shirley’s family, friends and faith were the light in her life. She lived every day with kindness, joy, compassion and gratitude.
An informal gathering for Shirley’s family and friends will be Monday, June 21, 9:30 – 10:30 am at The Eldridge, Crystal Room. Private family graveside service to follow.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Douglas County Visiting Nurses Hospice or Trinity Lutheran Church, sent in care of Rumsey Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana Street, Lawrence, KS 66044. The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Bridge Haven for the outstanding compassionate care and comfort provided for Shirley and her family.
We are sorry for your loss. Shirley was a delightful person and we enjoyed knowing her and Irv during their years in Lawrence.
Fred and Karen DeVictor
Dear Mark, Cindy and families,
I was so sad to hear of your Mom’s death. She was indeed, a sweet, kind, loving soul. Please know you have my deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers. I wish it was possible for me to attend the services today. Please know I’m with you in spirit. Love and prayers,
I am stunned to read this. I loved Shirley and Ervin very much. Spoke to both of them often before Erv passed. I am so very, very sorry. Truly.
Mark, Cindy and families, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Shirley was such a loving and special woman, and will be greatly missed by all. Shirley always set the perfect example of someone that was beautiful inside and out.
Mark,
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Cindy, Shirley was such a sweet and kind lady. Mom (Evie) always enjoyed sharing a meal and a laugh with her. Please know we are thinking of you and your family. With sympathy and friendship, Cheri
Shirley was a stately woman with a smile on her face. We always enjoyed any time we had the opportunity to visit with her. She will be missed.
Cindy & family
So sad hearing this news today. Your Mother & Dad were so special to Geo & I all our years in Lawrence. I have missed your mother’s smiling face & our times on golf course & over the bridge table & our Investment club which was really more Social. Great, great memories.
They were with me the evening I lost George.
Prayers for Peace, knowing we’ll meet again someday.
To all of Shirley’s family whom she loved so deeply you have my sincere sympathy. Shirley was such a good friend and I will miss her.We enjoyed each other’s company for 15 years while I lived in Lawrence especially on the golf course. So many fond memories.
We are so sorry for the loss of such a sweet woman. Our first memory of Shirley was at her grandson’s wedding when she told us that his future bride was good for him. Shirley and Erv raised such a loving family. Wishing you many wonderful memories to help you through this sad time. Pam and Charlie
Cynthia, so sorry about your Mother, both your parents were Special people…..Thinking of you, Linda Lester
God’s love and an extra measure of His peace to you all! I loved visiting with your Mom and Dad when he was alive….I brought them communion and brownies and I often teased your Dad that I didn’t know if he liked my brownies or the communion more! 🙂 Both of your parents were a strong testimony of faith and their commitment to their Savior! Love them both! RUTH