Janice Ann Hodges
November 6, 1958 - July 13, 2026

We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Janice Ann Hodges.

Born on November 6th, 1958, in St. Louis, Janice was the third of five children born to Ann and Charles Spiess. Janice was deeply devoted to her siblings, a life-long peacemaker and supporter of Charles (Janet), Dianne, Jimmy (Trina), and Susan (Bob). In addition to her siblings, Janice grew up close with her many cousins, and enjoyed a life-long friendship with Sandy Theismann, among many others.

When Janice was just 13 years old, on a camping trip along the Black River in Lesterville, her friend Sandy introduced her to Joe Hodges. Over the years Joe fell for Janice; she was as beautiful as she was down to earth. They had several things in common, including a deep love for and connection with their respective families, but they were also fundamentally different: Joe was the wild waves, Janice was the steadfast anchor. He finally won her heart at age 19, and after dating a few years they married on April 11th, 1980, spending 46 years together. True partners and companions, they grew up together as they built their beautiful life. They enjoyed camping, traveling–especially to national parks, and spending time with their friends and family. A testament to their enduring teamwork, Joe added modern amenities to their camping compound in Lesterville in recent years so that Janice could enjoy creature comforts while out in the country with Joe. Marriage is rarely easy, but Janice and Joe modeled for their children and nieces and nephews the reward that comes from the never-ending commitment and effort they invested in each other and their shared journey.

Ever a nurturer, Janice was a consummate mother. She took immense joy in raising Julia (Justin), Jordan (Alecia), and Justin (Crissy). A champion of education, Janice volunteered in her children’s schools and instilled a deep sense of academic dedication in each of them. Janice shared with her kids her own delight in visiting new places and discovering new things, even when it required dragging resistant children to various lighthouses around the country. She also instilled a love of sports, with many backyard games of kickball and late nights watching the Blues and Cardinals. She was, without a doubt, her children’s biggest and loudest cheerleader at their sports games.

Her devotion to her family, her warmth, and her amazing cooking and baking skills meant her home became the gathering place for family and friends. Her kitchen table was often surrounded late into the night. She lived for gathering family and friends, whether for an informal happy hour or a holiday like Thanksgiving (her Super Bowl).

Janice was a much-adored grandma to her grandchildren Paul, Graham, and Sloane. She loved spending time with them more than anything in the world. Grandma was playful and energetic, and they loved helping her pick vegetables in her garden, taste-test homemade treats from her kitchen, and receive dollar store surprises. She was also a beloved aunt (and surrogate aunt) to her many nieces, nephews, and her children’s friends. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you donate in Janice’s name to The St. Louis Crisis Nursery. 

Visitation at the Ortmann Stipanovich Funeral, 12444 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur on Tuesday, July 21 from 4-8 p.m. Funeral Mass at St. Monica Church, 12136 Olive Blvd. Creve Coeur on Wednesday July 22 at 10 a.m. Interment St. Monica Cemetery.

Ortmann Stipanovich Funeral Home
www.osfuneralhomes.com