Shirley Hodges

Shirley Grace Hodges, 89, of Lawrence, died Wednesday, June 16, 2021. She was born February 28, 1932, in Lawrence, the daughter of Lemuel and Mary (Curtis) Rothberger.

Shirley graduated from Liberty Memorial High School and attended the University of Kansas where she was a member of Sigma Kappa Sorority. In 1951 Shirley married Ervin E. Hodges and they were blessed with 68 years together. Shirley was a proud homemaker as she supported Erv's 23-year military career and later civilian opportunities. She often shared memories of the 22 moves that she successfully orchestrated. Though Shirley remained flexible for Erv's commitments, she was always active in her community. While stationed in Manassas, Virginia, she taught elementary school and was a hospital volunteer with the American Red Cross. She studied art history, successfully completed some oil paintings of her own, and was a docent at the Greenville, South Carolina Art Museum. She also volunteered as a docent at the Providence, Rhode Island Zoo and often ventured to schools with a bag of snakes or furry creatures to share.

Upon returning home to Lawrence, Shirley was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, FZ Chapter of PEO, Meadowlark Garden Club, West Side Study Club, and the Alvamar Country Club Women's Golf Association. She was blessed with loyal friends in several bridge groups and enjoyed new friends at Brandon Woods and Bridge Haven.

Shirley is survived by son Mark Hodges, and daughter Cynthia Fritzel (Tim). Five grandchildren; Erin Kozitza (Tim), Shannon Hodges (Isaias), Patrick Fritzel (Molly), Rebecca Koester (Patrick), Kylie Powell (Jason), and 11 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Erv Hodges in 2019. Shirley's family, friends and faith were the light in her life. She lived every day with kindness, joy, compassion and gratitude.

An informal gathering for Shirley's family and friends will be Monday, June 21, 9:30 – 10:30 am at The Eldridge, Crystal Room. Private family graveside service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Douglas County Visiting Nurses Hospice or Trinity Lutheran Church, sent in care of Rumsey Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana Street, Lawrence, KS 66044. The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Bridge Haven for the outstanding compassionate care and comfort provided for Shirley and her family.