Mary Ella Hodges, age 90, of Vernon, FL passed from this life on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at her home.  She was born on November 11, 1932 in Vernon, FL to the late Robert E. Hudson and Anne Ethel (Miller) Hudson.

She is survived by her daughter, Patricia Hodges Herndon (Aubrey), and her son, Steven Gary Hodges (Candice), along with three grandchildren, Avery, Cullen, and Brock Hodges, her siblings, Franklin Hudson (Nina), Iris Hudson Moore (Alfred), and Audrey Hudson Sexton (Willard).

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Richard Gary Hodges, her siblings, Robert E. Hudson "Junior", Margie Lee Boyett, Dr. Henry "Jack" Hudson, Reverend Billy Eugene "Gene" Hudson.

Mary was not just a loving wife, mother, and grandmother; she was also the first woman to serve as a Tax Collector in Washington County, holding her position for 28 years.  Mary was a true public servant willing to always do everything possible to help the people of the community.  She often brought work home for folks that could not get to the office in time and many times they would join the family for supper or a visit.  Mary was Baptist by faith and was a member of First Baptist Church of Vernon for over 60 years.

Friends remember her as an elegant woman that carried herself with pride, but her family will tell you they've never met a more practical, resourceful woman.  She spent many summer days laughing and out fishing anyone that challenged her, and many nights cleaning house at the family card table or jumping on the trampoline with the grand kids.

Mary also told stories that drew people in; you'd often find her surrounded by her grandchildren as they begged her to spin another tale of growing up during the Great Depression.  She was the kind of woman that captured your attention and held it, without even trying.

It is with bittersweet joy that her family sent her home to be with the Lord where she was welcomed with open arms by her husband, parents, and siblings that went on before her.

Family will receive friends for Visitation on Friday, February 24, 2023 at Brown Funeral Home from 6:00-8:00 P.M.  Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Saturday, February 25, 2023 at Brown Funeral Home with Reverend Aubrey Herndon officiating.  Interment will follow at Vernon Cemetery.