Hilda Dillard Hodge, born on February 5, 1947, went peacefully to be with the Lord on January 21, 2026, the same calendar day her beloved mother, Warjunia Allsbrooks Wall, was called home years earlier, a reminder of God's perfect timing.

Her life was defined by faith, creativity, dedication, and an unwavering love for her family and community.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Warjunia Allsbrooks Wall; her father, Narvelle Dillard; her brother, Lorenzo Dillard; her daughter, Leah Shereen Hodge; and her grandsons, Calvin O'Neal and Dejuan O'Neal. Though their absence was deeply felt, Hilda carried their memory in her heart throughout her life.

She leaves behind a loving family who will continue to honor her legacy. She is survived by her brother, Richard Dillard; her daughters, Ester Maria Graves (David), Adrienne Smith, Tammi Hodge, and Elmia "Minky" Hodge; and her son, Clayton "Quakey" Hodge. She was a devoted and proud grandmother to Nickolas Hodge; Rodney O'Neal (Tedra); Willie "Sed" O'Neal (Culshelia); Dameatrae Hodge; Lakeya O'Neal-Allen (Alexander); Jazmyne James (Kadeam); Montel Johnson (Moriah); Lance Smith; and Ella Thompson.

Her joy grew even deeper through her great-grandchildren, Nickolas "NJ" Hodge II, Kayla O'Neal, Nolan James, Seyvn O'Neal, Kinsley O'Neal, Roman James, Harlan James, Rodney "RJ" O'Neal, and Princeton Carr, each of whom she loved dearly and took great pride in.

Hilda is also lovingly remembered by her special cousins Marlene Henderson (Walter), Barbara A. Cain (Algefields), and Joyce Myers (John). She deeply cherished her many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family, maintaining close bonds and offering steady love, encouragement, and support throughout her life. Family meant everything to her, and she made sure everyone felt welcomed and valued.

She attended Paisley High School and went on to build a life marked by skill, commitment, and service. Hilda spent 29 years working in executive accounts with Piedmont Airlines and later US Airways, where she was respected for her professionalism, reliability, and dedication. Beyond her work with the airlines, she was a gifted and well-known seamstress in the community. She created beautiful dresses, tailored suits, and poured love into every piece she made, always making people feel confident and their very best.

After retiring, Hilda continued to do what she loved most. She became a wedding planner and remained a devoted church member, faithfully serving as an events planner. She found joy in bringing ideas to life, organizing meaningful gatherings, and creating moments that brought people together.

Above all, Hilda treasured time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Loving them, nurturing them, and being present in their lives was her greatest joy. Her faith, creativity, generosity, and steady love will live on through the many lives she touched.

Her memory will forever remain a blessing.