Donald Wayne Hodges

Donald Wayne Don Hodges, heralded financial advisor, selfless and dedicated counselor, mentor, devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, faithful Christian servant and staunch American business and entrepreneurship advocate, passed away January 21, 2015 from complications related to a blood disorder. Hodges was a man admired and revered by his industry peers and was loved deeply by his family that includes his wife of 59 years, Freddie, and their children, Camille Hodges-Hays, Craig Hodges and Clark Hodges. Don was a mentor and father figure to countless people over the years including business associates, employees and even his children's friends. Don had a passion for investing in stocks but he had an even bigger passion for investing in people. He always found and appreciated the best qualities in others. Don spent hours listening to stories and often offered some words of wisdom from his personal 40- year collection of favorite quotations saved from dozens of current and historical sources. An attentive listener, Don helped those seeking advice, and he also provided wise counsel and guidance to help friends, clients and many others reach their financial goals. Born in Canadian, Texas, on April 18, 1934, Don grew up under the tutelage of his father, Oliver Lee Hodges and his mother, Alma Mae Brown Hodges who both preceded him in death. From his parents, Don learned the importance of faith, family and commitment. After graduation from what was then known as West Texas State at Canyon, Don was a radio announcer at KAMQ. He discovered the investment field and subsequently built a career as an acclaimed investment advisor. Before launching his career, Don married his high school sweetheart Freddie Donaldson whom Don honored and cherished throughout their years together. Most recently, they celebrated the 59-year anniversary of their marriage. The family that now includes nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren personifies love, honor and commitment to each other and their loved ones. In 1960, Don began work at Merrill Lynch in Oklahoma City. Later, in 1983, he moved to Dallas to work at Rauscher Pierce in Dallas (now RBC Wealth Management), and in 1983 he advanced there to become president of the company. In 1989, Don and his son Craig launched their own firm. Early on, the pair decided to create an unprecedented start-up and original mutual fund, the Hodges Fund. That investment vehicle has received numerous awards for its results and the implementation of what is called the "Hodges Process." Since then, Don and Craig launched six other mutual funds that have landed praise from the largest and most important business publications. The company now manages $3.5 billion. After the initial company launch, Don's daughter Camille and his son Clark joined the Hodges enterprise. Although some might label Hodges Capital as a family business, the Hodges family prefers being identified as a business family. From a start-up of only a few, the company has grown to a team of 32 employees. Each one knows that Don considered them to also be members of his family, and he proved that in his actions and words. Don Hodges had a remarkable 55-year career, and it's a model that his children are fully committed to advance even further. He was a trusted steward of other people's money, and he took that job very seriously. He and Freddie also gave back to the community through their long-term support of Trinity Christian Academy, Dallas Baptist University, Criswell College, Wycliffe Bible Translators, and Presbyterian Community Foundation. In November, Don received the prestigious Russell H. Perry award. This award honors leaders whose lives are testimonies of achievements in free enterprise and service to the community. Don is survived by his beloved wife, Freddie, daughter Camille Hodges Hays, her husband Stan Hays and their children Trey & Maddie; son, Craig Hodges, his wife Jo Ann Ferrell Hodges and their children Kaki, Haley and Case; son Clark Hodges, his wife Kristina Hodges and their children Freddie Anne, Fernando, Kristian and Chanley; brother Robert Hodges and his wife Janice; brother Gary Hodges and his wife Deborah; sister Mary McCaffree-Simmers and her husband David and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Don was preceding in death by his brother William (Bill) Hodges, sister-in-law Theresia, brother James Hodges and brother-in-law Robert McCaffree. Services: Sparkman Hillcrest, 7405 West Northwest Highway, Dallas, TX. Visitation - Sunday, January 25th, 3:30pm-5:30pm. Memorial Service - Monday, January 26, 1:30pm, at First Baptist Church Historic Sanctuary, 1707 San Jacinto, Dallas, TX. Delivery of flowers can be coordinated through Sparkman Hillcrest or First Baptist Church-Dallas. Donations in Don's honor can be made to: Trinity Christian Academy - Student Tuition Aid, 17001 Addison Road, Addison, TX 75001 Or Don Hodges Endowed Scholarship Fund, C/O Dallas Baptist University, 3000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75211.