Richard T. Hodkinson, 78, a lifelong Uhrichsville resident, was called home to the Lord on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, from the Community Hospice Truman House in New Philadelphia, following an extended illness. Born July 13, 1943 in Dennison, he was a son of the late Everett Charles Hodkinson and Janice Fern (Hayes) Hodkinson Besozzi.
Richard was a 1961 graduate of Uhrichsville High School before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, having been decorated with a number of medals including a Bronze Service Star. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education and later his Master’s Degree, preparing him for his long career as an educator with Indian Valley Schools – often teaching in Midvale School until his retirement in 2000 after more than 25 years.
A man of deep faith and a gifted musician, Richard expressed his love for the Lord through his beautiful, joyful piano music as the accompanist at Park Christian Church for decades. He had previously been a member of the former Grant Street United Methodist Church in Dennison. Richard enjoyed the friendship of other local musicians as a member of the Music Study Club and was very active with the Deersville Community Players for many years. He will be remembered for his warm smile and cheerful attitude as he went through life.
He is survived by a number of nieces and nephews, including Debra Morrison and Sheri Hicks with whom he was especially close, and a host of dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Lawrence Besozzi; sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and Robert Donohoe; brother and sister-in-law, Everett Dean and Carolyn Hodkinson; and an infant brother and infant sister.
According to Richard’s wishes, cremation is planned and a memorial service will be held at Park Christian Church in Dennison on a future date. This website will be updated as soon as details are confirmed. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Park Christian Church, 236 Miller Ave., Dennison, OH 44621 and Deersville Community Theater, Treasurer Christy Holmes, 39300 Brushy Fork Rd., Cadiz, OH 43907.
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R.K. Lindsey Funeral Home, Inc.
740.922.1970
www.lindseyfh.com