Luther Raymond Hodges

Luther Raymond Hodges passed into the arms of his Lord and Savior on January 6, 2026, following a lengthy illness.

He was born on June 29, 1948, his parents' 7th wedding anniversary, the first son of Luther H. Hodges, Jr. and Bettye Jo Bugg Hodges in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He went to Ballman Elementary School, Ramsey Junior High and was in the first graduating class of Southside High School in l966. He thought he wanted to be an architect, so he pursued further education at the University of Arkansas (Go Hogs) in Fayetteville. After two years, he knew that wasn't for him, so he moved back home and went to work for his dad. He attended Westark Junior College, now the University of Arkansas Fort Smith. With the training he'd received from his dad, and his dad’s approval, Luther left to begin work as a jewelry department manager with JCPenney’s. Later, he was transferred to Albuquerque, New Mexico to manage a Penney's jewelry department. He went on to manage a Dillard's jewelry department in Tulsa. J. B. Seligson asked him to manage his flagship store, Peacock's Jewelry in Penn Square in Oklahoma City. After a very successful career there, he took Social Security disability in 2004. He then enjoyed working as a water fitness instructor at the Northside YMCA and at other Y's in the area.

He was a very active member of Quail Springs United Methodist Church where he was an usher and leader of the men's group.

Luther was dearly loved by family, friends, and colleagues throughout his life.

Both Luther's parents as well as his loving brother Joe, preceded him in death. He is survived by his partner of 15 years, Susan Martin.

A memorial service will be held Friday, January 16, 2026, at 11am at Quail Springs United Methodist Church, 14617 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73134.