Essie Muriel Hodge, 93, passed away Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021, at Oak Tree Villas in Jefferson City.
She was born Aug. 22, 1927, to Robert and Mae (Wools) Bullock, in Safe.
She was united in marriage to Ellsworth Hodge, Dec. 21, 1946.
Muriel was a lifelong resident of St. James and a 1946 graduate of John F. Hodge High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in 1961 from Lincoln University in Jefferson City. She further continued her education, receiving a certification in special education. Muriel taught in several one-room schools before teaching in St. James public schools, her career totaling 37 years. She was a former member of the St. James Civic Club, the Missionary Mite Society, Veteran of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxiliary and Missouri State Teachers Association. Muriel served as director of Vacation Bible School and taught Sunday school at the Christian Church in St. James.
She was preceded in death by parents, Robert and Mae; husband, Ellsworth; son, John F. Hodge; and siblings, Ethel Tivis, Edna Hendrix, Fred Seddon and Everette and Emmitt Bullock.
She is survived by daughter, Sandy Rankin of Jefferson City; and four granddaughters and seven great-grandchildren.
Services are private due to covid. Interment will be in St. James Cemetery. Memorial contributions suggested to St. James Caring Center.
Arrangements entrusted to James & Gahr Mortuary.
