Norman Franklin Hodges Sr.

Reverend Norman Franklin Hodges, Sr., 94, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away on September 13, 2026, at Lexington Medical Center. Born July 26, 1932, in Wallins Creek, Kentucky, he was a son of the late Paul Olien Hodges and Addie Mae Roberts Hodges.

Reverend Hodges attended the University of South Carolina and worked as an engineer for the South Carolina Highway Department. He answered the call to ministry and was ordained into the United Methodist Church at Emory University. He devoted much of his life to serving others through his faith and ministry. He was affiliated with St. John United Methodist Church.
A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Reverend Hodges served during the Korean War and was among the Marines who endured the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, often remembered as the “Chosin Few.” His military service remained an important part of his life and legacy.

Outside of his professional and ministerial pursuits, Reverend Hodges was on a bowling league and enjoyed singing. His long life was marked by service—to his country, his church, his family, and the communities he was called to serve.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Dean Harris Hodges; his children, Pamela Jean Hodges, Norman Franklin Hodges, Jr., and Tracy Payne Rockco.

Survivors include his daughter, Ann Elizabeth Roemer (Gary); grandchildren, Jeremy Payne (Miranda), Norman Alexander Payne (Tiffany), Brendan Anderson, Caiti Hodges (Matt), and Vincent “Lilly” Hodges; sister/cousin, Denise Allen; and former daughter-in-law, Lisa Ramsey; and former son-in-law, Steve Rocko.

The family will receive friends on Monday, September 21, 2026, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Shives Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel. The graveside service will be held Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Greenlawn Memorial Park, with the Reverend Tony Antonelli officiating.

Shives Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel, is assisting the family.