Donald Richard Hodges, beloved husband, father, grandfather, engineer, and lifelong boating enthusiast, passed away on April 13, 2025, at the age of 86.

Born and raised in Panama City, Florida, Don was the son of R.C. Hodges and Myrtle Day Hodges. He attended Georgia Institute of Technology, where he studied mechanical engineering, and went on to enjoy a distinguished 30-year career with Delta Air Lines. During his tenure, he contributed to the design and construction of baggage systems, fueling infrastructure, and facilities at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

After retiring, Don returned to his hometown where he pursued his passion for boating, fishing, sailing, and boat building. He was a devoted member of Holy Nativity Episcopal Church, serving in the Stephen Ministry to support homebound parishioners. He also took an active role in local civic matters, lending his technical insight to the public dialogue during the planning and development of the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.

Don was a man of few words, but his words carried wisdom, wit, and often one of his own homegrown aphorisms. His calm presence and gentle nature made him a steady anchor to both his family and his community.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dianne Strickland Hodges of Panama City; daughters Jill Hodges (Cedric Magnelia) and Michele Hodges; grandchildren Arthur Foley (Sanjana Foley), Zoë Magnelia, Walden Hillegass, Niccolò Magnelia, and Otto Hillegass; and his brother-in-law Frank Strickland, Jr. (Roxanne Strickland) and his extended family. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Margaret Mitchell Hodges, and his daughter, Laurie Foley.

A memorial service will be held at Holy Nativity Episcopal Church on Tuesday, April 22, at 3:00 p.m., with a reception to follow. All who wish to honor Don's life are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St Andrew Bay Watch, the Holy Nativity Episcopal Church's Backpack Ministry, or to Holy Nativity Episcopal School's STREAM building project.