In Webster's Dictionary the word hero is defined as "a person who is remembered and honored for his courageous life and deeds; one who shows great courage." When I read those words … it is the description of Ted Hodges, my husband and father of our only child, a son.

It is well known that people change when told, "It's cancer." But for Ted, that "change" did not come: He was already the changed man. Even before the doctor stated the diagnosis, Ted's life had made a father proud, a mother brag, and a community turn and ask his opinion. The guy in white.

Always the phantom "fixer." A vehicle driving off in the sunset with a voice from the crowd asking, "who fixed that?" A father who is a role model to our son in every way. This man, even in dealing with brain cancer, has shown our world that there are two ways of meeting difficulties: "You alter the difficulties, or you alter yourself to meet them." He has done both.

Ted's life cards have been laid out a little clearer than most. And, by golly, he has played them as though he could see the person's hand next to him. A poker face? No, he has known if he clinches his fist, no one can place anything in his hand, nor can he pick up anything. He has taken a simple view of living: keep your eyes open and get on with it, making the Lord your pilot. He has taken the co-pilot's seat.

There is no cape and no "S" plastered to his chest. No medal of Honor pinned to his lapel. He's not in Who's Who nor would his name be called to take a bow for marking a place in history.

His high school annual states – Ted Hodges: quarterback, Beta Club, Junior Class President, Baseball All-star, "Most Likely to Succeed"… and he has.

Survivors include: his wife Trisha, their son Blake and wife, Stacy; grandchildren: Daylee, Landon and Cameron; his mother, Pat Hodges; sister, Karen Kirwin and husband, Brad; brother, Larry Hodges and wife, Suzann; uncle, Joe Chao and wife, Norma.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 8, 2023, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. in the J.E. Keever Mortuary Chapel of Ennis.

A Celebration of his life will be held on Monday, October 9, 2023, at 2 p.m. in the First Methodist Church of Ennis with Dr. Larry Jinks officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for memorial to be made to the First Methodist Church of Ennis .

Submitted by family