Service
Committal
A.J. Hodges of Morganton, NC, passed away Wednesday, February 15, 2023.
Born in Mt. Airy, NC on June 14, 1938, he was the son of the late Samuel and Lucy Anna Parker Hodges.
A.J. was an honored veteran of the US Army and considered his church to be among the Living Oaks. He is remembered as a patient, soft-spoken cowboy and horse whisperer. Along with his beautiful wife, A.J. owned and operated Poco Rhythm Ranch, Horse Retreat, and Cabin Rentals on Burkemont Mountain where he pursued his passion for training and breeding Paint and Quarter Horses. He was the heart of Burkemont Mountain. A.J. dedicated much of his life to participating in and managing his and his wife’s music career. He was a devoted husband who loved her with his whole heart, and he was incredibly proud of her talent and success. In all he endeavored to do, A.J. was known as a silent but strong leader, a man of integrity and wisdom. He lived his life with confidence and conviction and made a positive impact on so many other lives. He was trustworthy with a gentle heart and genuine soul, and he was a true friend and brother. He was loved and respected by all who knew him.
A.J. was devoted to his family and was a proud father and grandfather. He enjoyed watching his grandson play football.
He is survived by those who loved him to heaven, including his precious wife, Juleigh Kay Edwards Hodges; beloved son, Jake Hodges and loving wife, Lori; amazing grandchildren, Kayla and Jacob; and several loving nieces, nephews, and many close and special friends. He will be loved and missed forever.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Hodges was preceded in death by his loving brothers, Edward, Robert, Monroe, Talmadge, Fred, and Leonard; and beloved sister, Launa.
The family will greet friends from 4 to 6 p.m., Saturday, February 25, 2023 at Sossoman Funeral Home.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for A.J. Hodges.
I just want to send a message of love and prayer to Juleigh Ed. She and AJ treated us like royalty many years ago. They both loved horses more than anyone I know, and he could train horses with love instead of harshness. My daughter, Lauren, was very young at the time. She was totally in awe of AJ & Juleigh Ed's kindness and inspired by them. Lauren is now a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. You were a blessing to us!
AJ Our Dear Friend The memories we all have, will always be cherished. Your strong and proud presence will be greatly missed but not forgotten. Your Love for Life and your beautiful Wife shall be remembered and admired. Through living this life with the two of you Juleigh and AJ, we have learned to Love Each Other as if there will always be a tomorrow. Until we meet again. John and Deb Causby Your Loving Friends
Juleigh Ed and family. Heaven gained a very special and gifted man. I got to know both through my work with teens. Poco Rhythm was a gift AJ shared with his lovely wife, helping teens gain confidence on their well trained horses. They also shared their beautiful love of music and talents. AJ was special. My heart goes out to Juleigh Ed because I have never seen such love as these two had. We should all be so lucky. Sending love and blessings. Judy Ingold
I met AJ many years ago and had the pleasure of working with him on the ranch. He was a great man and mentor to me. I still to this day use what he and Juleigh taught me over the time I spent with them. I am deeply sorry for your loss and if you need anything please let me know. Tony
Heaven just gained one heck of a cowboy. A.J. was one of the most kindest people you could know. He always had a special spark in his eye for his beautiful wife, Juliegh. They made a great team. I am blessed to call them friends and I know that heaven is a happier place with AJ there. He will be sorely missed here on earth but he is dancing to the best of country music in heaven. God bless Juleigh Ed and all her family, and AJ’sfamily too. Rest in Peace AJ.
I’ve never met a more kind and gentle man, than AJ. He was as friendly and kind as he could be. Wonderful neighbor and had a special sparkle in his eye for his Juliegh Ed. Always willing to help anyone in need, a true cowboy and wonderful human being. He will be sorely missed and God is getting an amazing man in heaven! God rest his soul, and God bless Juliegh Ed and all of the many friends that AJ had. Gone too soon🙏🏻
I'm so glad I got to meet my Great uncle A.J. 10 years ago. I felt like I had known him my whole life because when he talked, his voice sounded exactly like my paw, Robert. I'm sad for yours and our loss. I'll be thinking about you Juleigh.
I am so sorry for you loss, AJ was a wonderful man whom will be missed by many. We love you juleigh ed and saying lots of prayers for the entire family.