Marlon Bruce Hodge Jr.

Marlon Bruce Hodge, Jr., lovingly known as Bruce, was born in Denison, Texas on February 4th, 1941, and left this world on November 11th, 2023, in Arlington, Texas. Bruce lived a life full of passion, dedication and a deep love for his family and hobbies. Bruce was 82 years old.

Bruce will fondly be remembered by his beloved wife, Jean Hodge, who stood by his side through thick and thin. Bruce and Jean met while both working at Bailey Junior High and they were married on December 19th, 1973, at First United Methodist Church in Springtown, Texas. They were looking forward to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this December.

Academically accomplished, Bruce graduated from Denison High School Class of 1959. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas and went on to complete his Master’s degree at East Texas State University. He then dedicated 35 years of his professional life as an administrator at Bailey Junior High School before retiring in 2001. Bruce’s exemplary work ethic, unwavering commitment to education, and dedication to students touched the lives of countless individuals within the school community.

His memories will be cherished by his family who were all a source of immense pride and joy. They will forever hold on to the shared memories and bonds they had with Bruce.

Throughout his life, Bruce had many passions and pursuits. One of his greatest passions was deer hunting and spending time with all of the men in his life around deer camp, sharing great stories and building wonderful memories. An additional passion is his love of trains. Whether it was building intricate models, collecting G scale trains, or delving into the history of the Katy Railroad, Bruce found solace and inspiration in the world of locomotives. In his free time, he dedicated himself to woodwork, relishing the process of creating beautiful pieces with his hands. He was also an avid reader, often immersed in the pages of magazines and books, especially westerns, with a particular adoration for John Wayne. Additionally, Bruce had a talent for drawing and employed his artistic skills in crafting various train designs.

Bruce is survived by his wife, Jean Hodge; son, Jon Justin Hodge and wife, Lori; daughters, Stacy D’Ann Largent and husband, Brad, Allison Paige Laws and husband, Matt, and Ashley Jean Crow and husband, Keith. He also leaves to mourn his loss, grandchildren, David and wife, Brittany, Katy and husband, Brennan, Nick, Rachel, Austin, Taylor, Travis, Cortney and husband, Brandon, Kendall and fiance, Matthew and Charley. He is also survived by his sister, Carolyn Bagley and numerous nieces and nephews. Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Marlon Bruce Hodge, Sr. and Winnie Marie Hodge and his brother-in-law, Jerry Bagley.

A visitation service for Bruce will be held on Saturday, November 18th, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Family and friends who wish to pay their respects will be warmly welcomed. A family graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 18th, 2023 at Emerald Hills Memorial Park in Kennedale, Texas.

Bruce’s departure leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate to have known him. May he find eternal peace, and may his soul embark on a new journey, accompanied by the echoes of the trains he loved so dearly.