Gregory Roscoe Hodge

Gregory was the youngest child of six siblings born to Jarratt and Mary Estelle in Tillery, NC, near Emporia, VA on November 4, 1928. Gregory only had a 4th grade education, leaving his grammar school to try and set out on his own to make money for him and his family. He worked at a local five and dime store in Emporia and he later said that he always was thankful to the owner of that store for taking a chance on him and teaching him about money and tips on running a business and being a good man.

In February 1946, he enlisted in the Army and served for several years before settling in Williamsburg, VA after following his four older brothers to the area. Gregory remained close to his brothers and his sister who remained in Emporia.

In 1951, he met and married Ruth Caroline Larson, dancing on roller skates, and they were happily married for the next 71 years. They had their beautiful daughter, Pamela, “Pammy” as they called her, in 1954 and cherished son, Robert, in 1965.

Over the years, Gregory had various roles including being a Firefighter at Camp Perry and eventually got trained as a certified Barber and found his calling. Gregory ran several successful Barber shops in town including Abe’s Barber Shop and Gregory’s at the Landing, (located in Williamsburg Landing). Gregory was not only good at cutting hair, but he was a great listener and had a wonderful sense of humor.

He took the most pride in being a parent and grandparent. Gregory put every ounce of his heart and soul into his 2 children and 2 granddaughters, all who loved and adored him so much. His nickname was “Teenie” but he was a larger than life man with love and laughter that was contagious. Gregory helped take care of not only his own aging parents, but his mother-in-law and his sister in law whom he loved and adored. This man had a heart of gold.

Gregory was a proud member of the community and loved living and socializing in Williamsburg. He had many friends in town, most all of whom he spoke to all the way up until his passing. His friends meant the world to him. He and Ruth were both members, and once head of the Williamsburg Lions Club, with perfect attendance for over 50 years. Gregory was very athletic and energetic and coached the Capital Marine softball team, leading them to a championship victory in 1962. Gregory worked, attended and supported local events including the Occasion for the Arts, and anything that involved a Shrimp Fest. Gregory was a huge Tribe fan and also a dedicated member of the William and Mary Quarterback Club. Gregory was a loyal and active member at Williamsburg Presbyterian and later Jamestown Presbyterian Church, over the years.

Gregory is preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, and his son, Robert. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Ruth; daughter Pam (Gary) Hedgepeth; granddaughters, Mary Katherine (Chris) Aadahl and Courtney (Erin) Thomas.

Visitation will be Sunday, October 16th at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Rd, Williamsburg from 6:00PM to 8:00PM. The service will be Monday, October 17th at 11:00AM at Nelsen Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.