Viola May Hodges, age 77, passed away on Friday, December 21, 2012 at her home, 23808 Ellis Road, Cambridge Springs, PA following a seven month illness. A daughter of the late Lawrence Winsor and Grace Lucille Muckinhaupt Winsor, Viola was born on March 9, 1935 in Cambridge Springs. On July 12, 1958, she married Robert Leroy Hodges and he survives.
Viola graduated from Cambridge Springs High School in 1954. She was a legal secretary for a short time before becoming employed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources in Meadville for 37 years. She retired in 1996 as a managerial administrative assistant.
As a faithful member of New Beginnings Church in Meadville, Viola was active there as an usher. Her several memberships include the Golden Crown Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star in Meadville where she was a past worthy matron; the Venango VFW Post #169 Auxiliary where she was a past president; Meadville Elks Lodge #219; and the Gam-Sac-Mah Women’s Club of Cambridge Springs. She very much enjoyed bowling and golf and was an avid card player.
She leaves behind her husband, Robert, of 54 years; a brother – Lawrence “Bub” Winsor of North Carolina; a sister – Lois Castile and her husband, Ken of Meadville; and a aunt – Jean Port of Cambridge Springs. Many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews also survive. Preceding Viola in death was a brother – Clarence “Sonny” Winsor; a sister – Betty Jean Winsor and an two year infant sister – Doris Lucille.
Friends may call at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home in Cambridge Springs on Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9. Eastern Star services will be held Sunday evening at 9:00. Funeral services will be held at New Beginnings Church on Leslie Road, Meadville on Monday morning at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Harold Ferraro, pastor, officiating and Reverend Temple Jarrell assisting. Interment will be in Venango Cemetery.
Bob and Family, you have my heartfelt condolences. I have not seen you or Viola for several years now but my memories of her are vivid. She was always willing to help out when needed and was always prompt in her duties as an Usher. Her family and friends will hold her memory in their hearts for all time and she will never be forgotten. May the Holy Spirit fill you with peace, knowing that she is now in a better place.