Gregory James Hodges - 67, Bible Hill, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 5, 2023. Born in Truro, he was the first born son of Maie (Jeffrey) Hodges, Bible Hill, and the late James Hodges.
He left his Bluenose home for the big city life of Toronto between 1978 and 1996 where he worked at Oxford Pendaflex as a warehouseman and forklift operator. There he met his lifelong friend, travel-buddy, and baseball coaching partner, Larry Kondo. Further, the big TO also afforded him the opportunity to attend a litany of concerts: Amy Grant, Neil Diamond and all the big names of the 70s and 80s; he talked about those highlights till the day he died.
He moved home in 1996 to spend the remainder of his full and generous life. In recent years he was a devoted son, caring for his biggest fan and confidante, Mom (Maie). Gram and Da’s (Mary and Charlie Jeffrey) beautiful period-home on Vimy Road was "heaven and earth" to Greg. Perhaps Greg’s greatest legacy was when he wrote the history of his family’s generational homestead.
Life was full with property duties and his career as a lifeguard and swimming instructor, completing 24 years of service in Colchester County’s aquatic recreational facilities from which he retired with full honours in 2022. He could be a quiet man, but he was so eloquent and passionate about life that his words did find center stage by times…
Greg was a devoted member of Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, serving as a lay reader and volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul Society. Recently he was awarded the distinction of being elected Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus. His faith was his cornerstone.
Greg was a robust contributor to thousands of op/eds for the New York Times. He was followed and "liked" by thousands. He never minced his words or faltered in his profound political, current-events and historical knowledge. He was a passionate believer in democracy and the freedoms for which our countries have fought so hard. Greg’s politics spilled over into his community life as a liberal devotee and brave supporter of underdogs. His sports heroes were the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Blue Jays and Truro Bearcats. He just couldn’t get enough of them and he followed them with "meraki"!
As passionate as he was about all things global and local, sporty and political, notorious or understated, nothing surpassed his devotion to or love of family. His mom was his purpose, his best friend, his life’s companion; never will he be absent in her heart. Brother, Robbie (and Kim Thompson), sister, Cathy and brother-in-law, Jon Whittal-Williams, nieces, Erin (Jeff, River and Milo) and Claire (Matt, Hazel-Maie, Scarlette and Ruby)… these were the precious people who filled his life’s bucket. On July 5, 2023 it was filled to the brim.
Greg is survived by his whole family, immediate, extended and extending, and a network of friends that defy listing. The outpouring of love from across the county, the country and the world has been a source of great comfort to his family. We are humbled by the support.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall - Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where Gregory's family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, July 13, 2023. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 12:15 p.m., Friday, July 14, 2023, at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, 669 Prince Street, Truro, Father Jim O'Connor officiating. Reception will follow in Campbell Hall. Interment in Bible Hill Cemetery, 41 Warren Drive, Bible Hill.
Greg’s feature quote: "I’m not trying to be funny…but…"
Greg’s legacy quote: "May every sunrise bring you hope; every sunset bring you peace!"