Nelda Ruth Hodges

Nelda Ruth Kunkel Hodges, 81, the beautiful Grande Dame of our family passed away in Abilene on March 10, 2016 into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She experienced a stroke the same day last week that she lost her husband. Nelda’s mother’s family (Schuster) emigrated from Germany to Texas and eventually settled in Priddy, TX. Nelda’s family soon moved to Miles, Texas and then she eventually moved to Abilene. She met the charming, athletic and ambitious Eddie Hodges and they married. Eddie once said that marrying Nelda was the “best decision he ever made.” They forged a solid and loving partnership that endured over sixty-one years. They experienced much joy in raising four wonderful children: three daughters and one son. Mrs. Hodges is survived by her children: Charisse Pruett & husband Jim of Canyon; Michelle Brookshire & husband Tim of Tyler; Suzette Hodges of Abilene; and Eddie Hodges, Jr. of Dallas. She is survived by three grandchildren Heather Pruett Taylor of Canyon, Emma Brookshire and Bruce Brookshire of Tyler. She also has two great grandchildren Brooklyn and Beckham Taylor of Canyon. Nelda was preceded in death by her mother Emma Kunkel, brother Tony, and sisters Anita, Evelyn, Hannah and Edna, and her husband Eddie Valson Hodges. For over sixty years she gave her heart, love and entertaining savvy to the Philharmonic. She held every job and served in every leadership position possible within the Philharmonic Guild. The greatest recognition came her way through being recognized several years ago as the Abilene Philharmonic’s Grande Dame. Eddie was also honored as the Noble Gold. Nelda was recognized by classical music peers from across the state who realized her gifts and talents. She was elected to serve on the Texas Association of Symphony Orchestras. The state TASO conference was held in Abilene in ‘90’s and again in 2009. Both times she co-chaired the event, which was a massive undertaking. She did it beautifully. When the TASO Juanita Miller young artist competition was announced in Dallas, Nelda became excited thinking about similar opportunities that could be provided young musicians in the Abilene area. Husband Eddie entered the picture and worked hard to establish an endowment that bears her name and legacy. Now the “Nelda Hodges Young Artist Competition” rewards the best young artists in the Abilene area with music scholarships. In other community work, Nelda was a Junior League sustaining member, served on the Paramount Theatre and Hospice boards, was President of the 20th Century Study Club, and active at the First Methodist Church. She and her husband, along with some other couples, were instrumental in bringing to Abilene YOUNG LIFE, a faith-based youth national organization. However, the quintessential trait of sweet Nelda’s life came with her constant nurturing encouragement for the children that she loved so much. She always had time to engage with her children, connecting separately in his or her own realm. Nelda was on a life long journey to serve her Lord and Savior. She brought joy and cheer to her family, friends and every single person who came in contact with her. Our family would like to thank you for your many expressions of love and support, particularly now with the loss of our second beloved parent in such a short period of time. Nelda was and exceptional and gracious woman of God’s own choosing. She will always be remembered. In lieu of flowers our family would suggest that memorials may be made to the Abilene Philharmonic’s “Nelda Hodges Young Artists Competition” endowment, 401 Cypress Street, Suite 520, Abilene, Texas 79601; or to the First United Methodist Church of Abilene; or to Young Life of Abilene. Memorial service and reception celebrating the Life and Love of Nelda & Eddie Hodges will be held on Saturday, March 12, at 1:00 P.M. at the Abilene Woman’s Club, 3425 S. 14th Street, Abilene, Texas 79605.