James Thomas Hodges, 71, died suddenly on Wednesday, February 13.  He was transported from his home on Hutchinson Island to Martin Memorial Hospital where he passed.

Born on April 22, 1947, James (Jimmy) attended school in Long Island, New York, graduating from Bayshore High School in 1965.  Jimmy worked for many years as a conductor for the Long Island Railroad.

As a retired railroad conductor, Jimmy Hodges brought a love of people to each of his days on this earth.  To his family, friends and neighbors, Jimmy was a man whose glass was always well over half full…a  man who, while on his lengthy daily walks exercising in the neighborhood pool, endlessly entertained others with his legendary gift of gab.  Jimmy Hodges was a man who never met a stranger.  As self-proclaimed "mayor" of the neighborhood, he welcomed everyone who crossed his path.  He loved living on Hutchinson Island where his favorite greeting was "Just another day in Shangri-La."  He was devoted not only to his friends but to his wife of 14 years, Joanne Cohen, and to living happily with her in his beloved island "paradise."  Those who loved Jimmy, and they were many, are thankful for their matchless memories of this funny, quirky, and thoroughly unique individual.  He will be deeply missed and long remembered.

In addition to his wife, Joanne, Jimmy is survived by children Kristin and Tommy Bishop, Matt and Sherry Hodges, Steven Hodges, Melanie and John Licavoli, Caryn and Gabe Lopez, Jennifer and Andy Will, and his many grandchildren.

A private service for family only is scheduled this week.  A celebration of life in Jimmy's honor will be held in March at Pool 5, Sandpebble Beach and Yacht Club, Stuart, FL.