Marilyn Lary Hodges

Marilyn Lary Hodges, a sweet, kind, and loving soul, departed this world on December 25, 2024, in Courtland, Mississippi, at the age of 89. She was born on May 1, 1935, in Greenwood, Mississippi, to William Lacy Lary, Sr. and Maebelle Comstock Lary, who precede her in death. Marilyn was a cherished pillar of her family, a devoted wife, and a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Batesville.

Funeral services will be 3:00 P.M. Sunday, December 29, 2024, at the First Baptist Church in Batesville, MS. The family will receive friends from 1:00 P.M. until services on Sunday at the church. The interment will follow at Magnolia Cemetery in Batesville, MS.

Her career as a Secretary with the Mississippi Department of Transportation showcased her dedication and hard work, but it was the love for her family that truly defined her life. Marilyn’s greatest joy was spending time with her loved ones, creating memories filled with laughter and warmth. She leaves behind her beloved husband of 55 years, Joe C. Hodges of Courtland, MS, and her five daughters: Patricia B. Benson (Bobby) of Batesville, Anita H. Farrow of Independence, Donna Hodges of Florence, MS, Peggy H. Moore (Norman) of Nashville, TN, and Melanie H. Shuster (Rob) of Germantown, TN. 

Marilyn was not only a nurturing mother but also a proud grandmother to Newt Benson, Elizabeth Andrews, Mary Margaret Farrow, Ben Moore, Wil Moore, Sam Shuster, and Patrick Shuster. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Reid, Aiden, Mari Cauthen, Bo, Maebelle, Marlee, Collins, and Emmerson, who brought immense joy to her life.

Marilyn's sister Sally Pearl Lary Wilkens of Fairhope, AL, and her late siblings, William Lacy "Bill" Lary, Jr., Robert Baird "Bob" Lary, Barbara Jean Lary, and Gwendolyn Lary Pulley, were an important part of her journey.

In her quiet strength and gentle spirit, Marilyn Lary Hodges touched the hearts of many and will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Anyone wishing to send a memorial contribution, may forward those either The Grace Place, P.O. Box 1259 Batesville, MS 38606 or First Baptist Church Operation Christmas Child, 104 Panola Avenue Batesville, MS 38606.