JoAnn Snyder Hodge

JoAnn Hodge, a beacon of light and love, departed this earthly realm on October 21, 2025, at the age of 97, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Born on October 17, 1928, in Aiken County, South Carolina, she was the cherished daughter of Arthur P. Snyder and Ruth Whitlock Snyder, both of whom preceded her in passing.

JoAnn's life was a testament to her faith, her intellect, and her adventurous spirit,Blessed with a nurturing family, JoAnn was the beloved wife of the late Cecil Hodge, with whom she shared a lifetime of memories and unwavering love. Together, they raised a family that became her pride and joy: Nancy Thomas (Jeff), Derek Hodge (Karen), and Marty Hodge (Debbie). She was the doting grandmother to Grant Thomas, Amanda Ard, Ryan Hodge, Adam Hodge, Johnathan Hodge, Evan Hodge, and Sean Geaney, and a great-grandmother to Blakley Hodge and Madelyn Geaney. She was also a supportive sister to Dorothy Snyder and the late Barbara Craig.

JoAnn's pursuit of knowledge and dedication to service were evident in her academic achievements. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and furthered her education by obtaining a Master's degree. Her professional life was marked by her role as a Home Economist, her impactful tenure as the Director of the Union County Council on Aging, and her valuable contributions as a Mecklenburg County Extension Agent.

Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and interactions with everyone she met. JoAnn's church community benefitted greatly from her involvement and the love she poured into every engagement. An avid traveler and culinary enthusiast, JoAnn was a founding member of Friendship Force Charlotte, a part of Friendship Force International. She believed in the power of cultural exchanges, living with host families, and celebrating the commonalities that bind us together as a global family. Those who knew JoAnn would describe her as an interesting, intelligent, and adventurous soul. She approached life with a sense of wonder and embraced every opportunity to learn and grow. Her presence was a source of inspiration and joy to her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her.

JoAnn Hodge's legacy is one of love, service, and the relentless pursuit of understanding. Her life's journey may have come to a close, but her spirit continues to resonate in the lives of those she touched. We celebrate her remarkable journey on Earth and take comfort in knowing she rests in the loving arms of her Savior. The world is a better place for having been graced with JoAnn's presence. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of her loved ones.

As we bid farewell to JoAnn Hodge, we do so with gratitude for the time we shared with her and the lessons she imparted. May she find eternal peace and joy in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Special Thanks the nurses and health care workers of Matthews Glen and Visiting Angels. The family will receive friends on Saturday October 25, 2025 from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM, the funeral service will follow at the First Baptist Church of Matthews 185 S. Trade Street Matthews, NC . Flowers will be accepted or memorial donations can be made to Friendship Force Charlotte, C/O Diann Norwood 181 Surburban Avenue Concord North Carolina 28025.