Sondra Hodgson

Sondra Louise Hodgson, 87, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with her daughter by her side.
Born on September 24, 1937, in McPherson, Kansas, Sondra spent her formative years in Little River, McPherson, and Manhattan, Kansas. She graduated from Manhattan High School in 1955 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology from Kansas State University in 1958. Her academic pursuits were supported by an Am-Vets Scholarship-a testament to her dedication and intellect.
Sondra's love for learning never waned. In 1999, she returned to school and earned a second Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science, also from Kansas State University. This achievement reflected not only her intellectual curiosity but also her lifelong passion for animals-especially horses, that brought her deep fulfillment.
A devoted Christian, Sondra lived by the Golden Rule and carried her faith into every aspect of her life. Her generosity, even when she had little to share, and encouraging spirit left a lasting impression on those who knew her. Whether through kind words or thoughtful deeds, she consistently uplifted others with grace and compassion and always wanted the best for others.
Sondra was preceded in death by her parents, Robert M. Hodgson and Alice L. Hodgson; and her big brothers, Dr. Bob Hodgson and Dr. Dale Hodgson and many family members and friends.
She is lovingly remembered and will be greatly missed by her daughter, Mary Alice Hodgson; son-in-law Nathan Chaffin; and beloved grandson Owen Chaffin, who had a special bond with his Mimi. She also leaves behind cherished sister-in-law and friend, Patricia Hodgson; nieces, Suehzen Mosely (Chris), Marla Doherty (John), and Roberta Hodgson; nephews, Ruehlen Ray Hodgson (Martha) and Ned Hodgson and their families. Aunt Sondra loved them like her own. She will be missed by the Ruehlen, Steinle, Johnson and Hodgson family cousins and the many friends from her time in Kansas, West Virginia and Pennsylvania.
An interment and graveside service with family will take place later this year at the McPherson Cemetery, McPherson KS.
If you've received a kind word or thoughtful gesture from Sondra, please embrace her spirit of generosity and consider sharing (if you are able) with 2 organizations that greatly impacted her life and will continue to impact the lives of many others. Her local South Park Meals on Wheels organization: or a local youth 4-H Chapter in your area:
May Sondra's memory and tenacious spirit bring comfort and encouragement to those who knew and loved her. Enjoy a slice of Key Lime Pie while thinking of her and always remember to "keep it in the mix and keep up the good work."
Professional services entrusted to Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home & Crematory Ltd, Blawnox, PA; www.thomasmsmithfuneralhome.com