Obituary published on Legacy.com by DW Brooks Funeral Home on Oct. 1, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to support the children of Ja Marae De Shaun Strogen-Hodges
Ja'Marae De'Shaun Strogen Hodges, known affectionately as Jae, embarked on his grand finale from the stage of life on August 20, 2025. Born on a hot December 18th in 1992, in the vibrant city of
San Antonio, Texas, Jae's melody began. And it was in that same city, surrounded by the love of his family, that his song found its gentle coda.
Jae was a maestro of life's symphony, conducting his days with humor, love, and a dash of wit. He was the beloved son of Nakia Strogen and Darrell Hodges(Sheran) the grandson who lit up the lives of Gladys (Freddie Hodges proceeded in death) and Sandra (Chester Strogen proceeded in death)and the brother who could always be counted on for a laugh or a shoulder to lean on for Warren Wolfe, Ashlei Holmes, Dominique Greer, Christian Brown, Alexis Hodges, Jared Strogen, Shamiyae Johnson, Dominion Lee, Ja'Nyhia Strogen, Destiny Lee, and Ja'Kyla Strogen. His greatest compositions, however, were his beautiful children, Skylar Strogen (Geordann) and Devin Fletcher(Rae), who will carry on his legacy with every note they play in their lives. His aunts,uncles and cousins will miss his quick wit, shenanigans(putting the boat in the pool) and his utmost respect for them and the roles they have in his life. His love for people was never ending and his bestie forever, Hailey Simone was no exception to that principle.
Jae was a maestro not just at home but also in the academic arena. He studied music and business management at San Antonio College, where he orchestrated a foundation that would support his future endeavors. His career was a crescendo of success, working as a Music Director for several churches, the swanky Bentleys club, and artists of note such as the soulful Hali Washington and the ever-vibrant Josh Hurt. Jae's professional life was like a hit track-catchy, beloved, and always on replay.
A devout Christian, Jae's faith was the bassline that underpinned his life. It was his rhythm of grace, his harmony of hope. But don't let the church pews fool you; Jae knew how to keep the congregation on their toes with his quick wit and infectious laughter that echoed through the sanctuaries and any venue he was present in.
Jae's interests were as eclectic as his personality. He was a man who loved to perfect his musical craft, sure, but his real joy came from the improvisational jam sessions of life with his family. He was the kind of guy who would turn a family dinner into a comedy roast, where no one was safe from his playful jibes, and every gathering was an encore performance.
Jae leaves behind a chorus of friends and family who will miss his impromptu serenades, his unexpected punchlines, and his unshakeable faith. His life was a song of joy, love, and laughter-a tune that will continue to hum in the hearts of those who loved him. So here's to Jae, the man who taught us that life doesn't have to be perfect to be a beautiful melody. May his soul rest in harmony and his spirit soar on the wings of the angels' choir.
Ja'Marae De'Shaun Strogen Hodges, the world was your stage, and you played every part with gusto. We thank you for the music, the mirth, and the memories. Curtain call, dear Jae, take your bow. Your audience will always applaud the wonder that was you. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Ja Marae, please visit our Tree Store.