Carol Ann Hodges

Carol Ann Hodges, 73, of Van Buren, passed away Sunday, March 7, 2021 at her home. She was born November 2, 1947 in Safford, AZ to Edward and Mary Mathews. She was the first female police officer in Fort Smith in 1975; had worked in real estate in Fort Smith and the surrounding area in the 80’s and 90’s; and she retired as a Social Worker helping abused children, teens, and women. She loved to cross-stitch and crochet afghans for friends and family. After she retired, she would make afghans throughout the year to donate to Project Compassion at Christmas time for nursing home patients.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Garfield Hodges, Jr.; a son, Brian Hodges; a brother, Laurence Mathews; and a niece, Sherry Rhodes.

She is survived by two daughters, Michele Perkins and husband Jason of Van Buren, and Daniele Day and husband Chris of Texas; a son, Trey Hodges of Clarksville; a sister, Rita Rhodes and husband Keith of Wetumpka, AL; seven grandchildren, Devin, Taylor, Dylan, Bradley, C.J., Carissa, and Breann; five great-grandchildren; a niece, Micha Proietto; and five nephews, Larry, Mike, Dave, and Marty Mathews, and Steve Rhodes.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 10, 2021, at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at Oak Cemetery in Fort Smith, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.

Pallbearers will be the female officers of the Fort Smith Police Department.

Viewing will be from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 9, 2020, at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren, AR.

Memorial contributions may be made to Project Compassion at www.projectcompassioninc.com.