Gladys (Leniece) Hodge

Gladys Hodge, lovingly known as “Leniece,” passed away peacefully on the evening of February 19, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on May 7, 1941, to Leonard Joe Brown and Thelma Mae Dick, Gladys lived a life defined by unwavering faith, deep devotion to her family, and selfless love for all who knew her.

From an early age, Leniece accepted Christ as her Savior and remained a faithful and devoted follower throughout her life. Her relationship with the Lord was the cornerstone of who she was. She was an active and cherished member of her church, faithfully volunteering and serving in the worship department. Blessed with a beautiful voice, she joyfully used her gift to praise her Savior, Jesus Christ. Her songs were more than melodies—they were expressions of her steadfast faith and gratitude. She also served for several years in the nursery ministering the love of Jesus to the babies.

Leniece was the heart and backbone of her family. Alongside her beloved husband of over 55 years, Albert Hodge Jr, she built a home filled with warmth, strength, and unconditional love. She had a remarkable way of making everyone feel seen, valued, and deeply cared for. Her kindness, gentle spirit, and quiet strength made her truly one of a kind.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her devoted husband, Albert Hodge Jr; her beloved son, Gary Wayne Hodge; and her brother, Stephen “Corky” Brown.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving children: Albert Tillman Hodge III and wife Susan, Debra Kay Jacks, and Tammy Lynn Castleberry and husband Roger. She is also survived by her brothers Cleveland Brown and partner Dorothy, Leonard Brown and wife Susanne, and Randal Brown and wife Cheryl; her sisters Joyce Hall and husband Jerry, and Carolyn Brown; along with an extended number of nieces, nephews, family members, and dear friends.

Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Darryl and wife Savannah, Ashlea and husband Adrian, Natasha, Megan and husband David, Daniel and wife Alyssa, and Jonathan and wife Diamond. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Elizabeth Hodge, Jordyn Hodge, John Young, Avery Young, and Isaac Young, Emma Castleberry, Elliott Hernandez, Rylie Hernandez, Darryl (DJ) Castleberry Jr., Paisley Castleberry, Hunter Castleberry, Adrian (Jade) Gularte, and Alexzander (Alex) Gularte, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Leniece also leaves behind her beloved church family, who were so dear to her heart and with whom she shared years of fellowship, service, and worship.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she has entered into eternal rest with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her faith was her foundation, her family was her joy, and her love will continue to echo through generations.