William Ashley Hodges

William Ashley (Rocky) Hodges, 75, passed away on January 3, 2024 at his home in Chesapeake after a 35 year battle with Parkinson's. He was born in Norfolk and traveled the world with his Navy father until his dad's death. He and his mother settled in Chula Vista, California where his love of all things water began. He was active in sailing from the time he was a preteen until his disease took the ability to continue. He enjoyed all water sports as well as land activities.
Rocky was a favorite teacher at Norris Middle School in Bakersfield where he taught seventh grade life science. He maintained his love for teaching and science, always explaining it to anyone who would listen.
Rocky is survived by his partner of 20 years, Lee Ringer; a daughter, Elisabeth (Beth) Finney and her husband, David; his son John (Ashley) Hodges; a stepdaughter, Patricia (P.J.) Ringer; a stepson, Joseph Richard (Rickey) Ringer; and two granddaughters, Karlee and Emma. He is the son of the late LCDR Ashley R. Hodges and Beryl Hodges.
There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, January 14, at his home from 1:00-3:00 pm.