Martha Ruth Hodges

Ruth Lassiter Hodges, 93, passed away on Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at her home after a period of declining health. She was born on May 24, 1918, in Four Oaks, N.C., to R.C. and Martha Keen Lassiter. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her husband, Robert R. Hodges, and all her siblings. She is survived by two nephews, Jerry Durham and wife Ann, of Four Oaks, and Rick Smith and wife, Marie, of Raleigh. Also surviving are 3 great nieces, 2 great nephews, and 13 great-grand nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Hodges graduated from Four Oaks High School and worked in Raleigh for many years for Boylan Pierce Department Store. Mrs. Hodges was a member of Hayes Barton Baptist for over 60 years, and the Modern Lydia SS class.

She was a true Southern lady with a lovely sense of humor. She was very independent, and took great pride in taking care of all her business and personal needs. She lived a quiet life in her later years, enjoying sewing, reading, decorating, and jewelry making. The highlight of her day was dinner with her sister and friends at Ballentines, and later K&W. A special "thank you" to her friend, Robert Senter, who kept her connected to the world after she became shut-in. Ruth was devoted to her family and will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed.

A private graveside service will be held Monday, August 1, 2011 at Montlawn Memorial Park, Raleigh. A celebration of her life will be held 11:00 a.m., Monday, August 1, at Hayes Barton Baptist Church, 1800 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27608. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Martha's Ministry at Hayes Barton Baptist Church.