Harry Franklin Hodges, 86, of Starkville passed on December 30, 2019. He was born in Bedford, Indiana, to Ollie and Frances (Foster) Hodges, the sixth of seven children. He was educated at Shawswick High School and Purdue University, where he received his PhD in 1964.

In 1955, Harry married Sara (Henke) Hodges, and together they raised four children in West Lafayette, Indiana and Starkville, where they moved in 1975. Harry worked as a plant physiologist in the Agronomy Departments at Purdue University and Mississippi State University until his retirement. Elected an American Society of Agronomy Fellow, he enjoyed working collaboratively with co-workers and made an important impact in the field of crop simulation. Harry was devoted throughout his life to improve the lives of children and served as a foster parent and on the boards of children’s homes both in the U.S. and abroad. An active member of Starkville Kiwanis, he prized its service orientation. As a hobby, Harry got involved with woodworking and enjoyed making wooden treasures to give away. In his later years he spent much time walking his beloved dog, Gypsy, brightening the day of everyone along their path. A man motivated by deep faith and love of God, he was active in his church and supported mission efforts around the world. He was exceptionally generous to family, friends, and strangers, always ready to lend a helping hand and to provide resources. He has spent his last years providing devoted attention to the care of his beloved Sara. He will be long remembered for his loving service, practical wisdom, kindness, pranks, and joyful presence.

He leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Sara, three brothers, John and Gene Hodges of Bedford, IN and Thomas Hodges of Santa Rosa, CA, his children Roger Hodges (Jan) of Atlanta, GA, Darlene Rivas (Mike) of Agoura Hills, CA, Keith Hodges (Lucinda) of Valrico, FL, foster daughter Kathy Morris (Wade) of Starkville. He also leaves his beloved grandchildren, Jessica Hodges, Sara Hodges, Harrison Hodges, Rachel Rivas Russell (Derek), Michael Rivas (Sarah), Jacob Hodges (Alicia), Corrie Hodges, Nathan Hodges, Timothy Morris, William Morris, and five great grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents, Ollie and Frances Hodges, sisters Mildred and Mary and brother Harold.

Funeral services will be held at Starkville Church of Christ on Saturday, January 4 at 11:00 with visitation preceding at 9:30. Burial at Memorial Garden Park will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts are encouraged to the non-profit of the giver’s choice.