Ruth Carolyn Hodge

It is with deep sorrow and much love, that we mourn the passing of Ruth Carolyn Hodge (Larson), at the age of 90. Ruth was a true hometown girl, as she was a lifelong resident of Williamsburg. Ruth grew up on a small farm off Lake Powell Rd., where the winery now sits. She was the youngest daughter of Lola and Clarence Larson. Ruth had an older sister, Dottie, who was also her best friend. Ruth was a proud 1951 graduate of the original Matthew Whaley School in Williamsburg.

Ruth was fashionable and sociable early on, and this served her well in her first job working for Mr. Hickman at the Williamsburg Shops on Duke of Gloucester Street. Ruth said that she loved working with people and adoring all the beautiful clothing. In her later years, she was lovingly nicknamed “Grandma Gorgeous”, and if you were blessed enough to know her, you knew this name was truly fitting.

After meeting on roller skates and dancing the night away, she married the love of her life, Gregory Roscoe Hodge (Teenie) in November 1951. For the next 70 years, they spent every single day by each other’s side, laughing, living, and loving. Never has a love between two people shined so bright.

Ruth enjoyed being a wife and hosting social events at her home; however, the role she cherished most was being a mother and caregiver. In 1954, her beloved daughter Pamela was born, and then son Robert in 1965. They, along with her granddaughters, were the light of her life.

Ruth remained both stylish and social, through her employment as a secretary at both Camp Perry (where Gregory was a volunteer Fireman) and the WJCC Courthouse. Ruth and “Teenie” had many friends and were extremely active in the city that she loved. They were a part of the local bowling league, integral members of the Capitol Marine Softball team, huge William and Mary Tribe fans, devoted worshippers at the Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, and dedicated members of the Williamsburg Lions Club, where Ruth served as Lady Lion for several years.

In addition, Ruth had a gracious and giving spirit. She spent time serving her community through volunteering and donating to organizations like FISH, Salvation Army, and of course, through her church.

Ruth is preceded in death by her husband, her son, her sister, and her parents. She is survived by her daughter, Pamela Ruth Hedgepeth (Gary) of Williamsburg; and beloved granddaughters, Mary Katherine Aadahl (Chris) and Courtney Gail Thomas (Erin). In addition, Ruth is also survived by her Aunt Gertrude Bowman and a myriad of cousins, nieces, and nephews with whom she shared a deep love.

A visitation will take place at Nelsen Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, from 6-8 PM. The funeral service, also at Nelsen, on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 10 AM.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, any donations are made to FISH, Salvation Army, or the Williamsburg Lions Club.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com for the Hodge family.