James Alexander Hodges, III

In Loving Memory of James Alexander Hodges, III

March 2, 2005-July 5, 2025

It is with deep sorrow and enduring love that we announce the tragic passing of James Alexander Hodges III, affectionately known as Bird & J.J. who drowned in Lake Isabella, Ca.

Born to Donna and J.A. Hodges, II, James came into the world with an infectious enthusiasm for life. His eagerness ignited his resilience to adapt and learn.

He was a proud graduate of Toluca Lake Elementary, Walter Reed Middle School and North Hollywood High School. He embraced student life at LMU and was entering his Junior year. As a dedicated student he was involved in the Business Law Society, Mane Entertainment and played for LMU's club basketball team.

To all his friends, he was fiercely loyal with an encouraging smile that brightened any room he entered. As he once captioned a photo of himself beaming; "I can't believe my life!"

Beyond campus, James was passionately pursuing a career in the entertainment and sports industries. He was a booking intern with Live Nation Entertainment, worked part time at the Kia Forum Box Office and previously interned with Nederlander Concerts. In 2025 he served as an Ambassador at the Oak View Group's Pollstar Conference. His passion was deeply rooted in his family's legacy in entertainment and was reflected in his journey.

He was a devoted sports fan and athlete. From his early days in T-Ball and Flag Football to his daily dedication to basketball, sports were a central thread of his life. At age 10 he announced a 9 inning Dodger's game on simulcast and in 2018, shot hoops at halftime during a Laker's game break- earned by his essay, "What Makes A Person A Good Teammate?" He attended both Lakers and Clippers Youth Camps.

He named the cat he found for his favorite football team, the Denver Broncos.

To his family, he was the heart of their world.

To his grandparents he was the embodiment of hope, joy and all the aspirations one dreams for a grandchild.

To his beloved Mother-his best teammate-James was everything; every good intention, every thoughtful decision, every promise fulfilled. He was her little Bird. For her, being his mother is the greatest honor of her life.

James is survived by his Mother Donna Hodges, his Father J.A. Hodges, II, Grandparents, Sylvia Gonzalez & Jose Vega and James A. Hodges, Sr. & Karen, half sister Alexis Hodges, Aunt Miriam Hodges Prashad, her husband Garauv Prashad, his 1st cousins Jackson & Cary Prashad, and many extended family members from both sides.

Celebration of Life Service is 10:00 A.M., Saturday, August 16th at Loyola Marymount University's Sacred Heart Chapel at 1 LMU Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90045; Reception & Remembrances Following.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the "James Alexander Hodges, III Scholarship Fund", LMU - Giving to Loyola Marymount University - 310-338-5922.

James will be remembered for the light he brought to others, the joy he gave freely and the dreams he pursued boldly. He lives on in every life he touched.