MICHAEL T. HODGES

Dec. 20, 1961 – Apr. 22, 2025

In loving memory of Michael "Mike" Hodges, who passed away peacefully at home on April 22, 2025, at the age of 63, with his loving wife by his side.

A long-time resident of Imperial Valley, Mike was a devoted husband, brother, friend, and faithful servant who touched many lives through his quiet strength and generous spirit. Born in San Diego, CA, Mike moved to El Centro in 1969 with his parents, the late William "Gene" and Donna Hodges, and made the Imperial Valley his lifelong home. A graduate of Central Union High School (Class of 1980), Mike began his working life in local grocery stores including, Mayfair, Cooks/Valley Market & MaxFoods. In August of 1994, Mike proudly joined the Imperial County Sheriff's Office. He served with distinction for 30 years as a Correctional Officer and was assigned to the Technology Services Unit. In 2008, he was recognized as Officer of the Year. He retired in November 2024, leaving a legacy of loyalty and integrity. Mike's dedication to others showed in everything he did. He volunteered for years with the Girl Scouts, teaching girls how to fish, helping with cookouts, and setting up event & camp equipment with joy and patience. He was a man of faith, active in his church community, always lending a helping hand at events or pitching in with small repairs. Mike loved reading about history & technology, and visiting Prescott, AZ and Imperial Beach with his wife, and he was on a mission to visit every pier in California. He also adored his cats, Pat, Boots, Sleepy Joe, Spot, and Cole, and had a soft spot for the neighborhood yard kitties.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Kay Ann (Fagan) Hodges; brother, Anthony "Tony" Hodges; aunt, Ann Griffin; cousin, Carolyn Griffin; second cousin, Corey (Rheana and Gavin) Griffin; niece, Kelli Glass; and nephew, Brian Fagan.

In Michael's memory, donations may be made to: Girl Scouts San Diego/Imperial Council to send a girl to camp at [email protected] or Imperial Valley Humane Society in honor of his love for animals.

A memorial service will be held for Michael on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, Corner of 8th and Holt Ave., El Centro, CA. A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall. Michael will be laid to rest later this summer. Please share your memories and photos on his memorial page as we honor the life of a loving husband, humble, kind, and devoted man.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Imperial Valley Press Online on May 17, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL HODGES

7 Entries

Tommy & Debra Gray

May 25, 2025

I am so sorry for your loss. Mike was such a great guy. Knowing him since we were in 9th grade at Central Union High. He was always the quiet guy-on the shy side- but always said Hi to each other when saw each other. Such a nice guy all around. He will be greatly missed. Sending prayers of comfort & peace to you and all of his family.

Rebecca Lemon

May 24, 2025

Mike and Kay are the perfect example of a couple that was destined to be together, the kind that you could see the love, respect, and unity every time you saw them. It was rare to see them apart, and it seemed like the other was lost without the other. Mike would stand in the background, keeping watch over Kay, while making sure everything "behind the scenes" went smoothly for anything they helped out with our church. He was a respected and generous man that I have never seen anything but dignity, humility, and an overall sense of greatness that people strive to have.
I would see him in the parish hall, chatting with the other men, all the while making sure Kay was safe and doing whatever she was doing, without a care in the world
The world lost a great man in him, but he will be reunited with his wife in God's kingdom.

Cheryl Bogue

May 21, 2025

So many happy memories. So sorry to hear of your loss. You were the greatest couple and what a pleasure to have known you. My prayers are with you.

Cheryl & Mike Taylor

May 20, 2025

Kay, I am so sorry for your loss of a terrific husband. He was such a great guy. Knowing him since we were 7th graders going to Jr. High at Wilson. We got to be good friends. We was always the quiet guy always walking around and always said Hi to each other when saw each other. I was so pleased when you and Mike got together. Two good friends that I knew would be good together. He will be missed and I will always have my memories as everyone else will. Love and prayers to you and all of his family.
Cheryl & Mike Taylor

M. Mireles-Williams

May 19, 2025

My sincere prayers and condolences to all of Hodges family. I worked with Hodges for a short time at ICSO. Hodges was a humble employee. Always helping others and was a very respectful person. Rest In Peace Officer Hodges.

Mejia

May 17, 2025

My condolences to Tony & the entire family worked with Mike at the SO for over twenty years great co worker always helping out RIP . 811

Susan Farrar Paradis

May 17, 2025

Sweet Kay, I am so very sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of watching you light up every time you spoke of, or saw Mike when you first started dating. And am positive that never changed, even after 36+ years. I pray God will provide comfort and peace for you during this time. God bless.

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