Emil Leroy Hodge

Emil Leroy Hodge, 83, of Marion, Kentucky, passed away on February 23, 2026, at Livingston Hospital. 

Leroy was a lifelong resident of Marion and a man deeply devoted to his faith, family, and community. He was married to Barbara,the love of his life, for 62 wonderful years. Alongside her, he was the owner of Hodge's Sports & Apparel in Marion. In 1972, he and his father, Charles "Charley" Hodge, purchased York Sporting Goods, marking the beginning of what would become Hodge Outdoor Sports. In May 2026, the business will celebrate 52 years of serving the community. At the age of 28, Leroy and Barbara purchased North Court S&T Hardware and Gifts from Raymond and Emmer Patmore. That venture eventually led to moving the business into what is today Hodge's Sports & Apparel. 

Over the years, Leroy continually worked to meet the needs of the community, expanding to include a Radio Shack franchise and Verizon. As needs arose and times changed, he was always willing to adapt. He remained deeply grateful for the loyal patrons of Hodge's. Throughout the years, he was blessed with many wonderful employees, including Karen Gatten, who faithfully served alongside him for 38 years and whom he loved like family.

Earlier in life, Leroy was the head butcher at Westside Market, a family business. He was also a founding member of the Marion Airport and served on the local airport board until February 2026. A recreational pilot, certified scuba diver, and search-and-rescue diver for the local rescue squad, Leroy had a true spirit of adventure. He was an excellent slalom skier who enjoyed days on the river and helped construct a ski jump near the ferry landing. He also loved motorcycles, dirt bikes, and racing.Leroy was a faithful member of Marion Baptist Church, where he served as Deacon and Deacon Chairman. He was also a member of Gideons International, a former member of the Crittenden County Lions Club, and served for numerous years as a board member of Hurricane Youth Camp. 

The most important decision of his life was accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at the age of 25. His faith was the cornerstone of his life and carried him through many challenges, especially during the past 19 years as he faced illness and physical limitations with grace and dignity.He was deeply loved by his wife and daughter. Leroy was a kind, patient, loving, and good, Godly man whose steady faith and gentle spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Hodge of Marion, KY; daughter, Britt (Terry) Wright of Marion, KY; brother, Ronald (Debra) Hodge of Long Beach, Mississippi; sister, Karla (Glenn) Bumpus of Marion, KY; grandson, Ross Wright of Marion, KY; and great-granddaughter, Marley McDaniel of Gallatin, TN.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Leroy and Georgia Estelle Hodge, and his brother, James Noel Hodge.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Marion Baptist Church, with interment in Sugar Grove Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 6:00-9:00 PM on Friday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion, KY, and from 10:00 AM until service time Saturdayat the church. In honor of Leroy, memorial donations may be made to Hurricane Youth Camp, where he faithfully served as a board member for many years.

Gilbert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.