Robert Earl Hodges Dec. 11, 1934 - Jan. 1, 2012 Resident of Richmond After a courageous battle with illness, Robert passed away peacefully at his home in Richmond, California. Robert, affectionately known as "Bob" was born in Louisiana and raised in Oakland, California. He graduated from McClymonds High School, "The School of Champions" in 1952 as the Capt. of the school's legendary basketball team. Under the direction of Coach George Powles, Bob, a solid guard with impressive skills and stats led his team to a Nor Cal basketball Championship. In that same year, his leadership as team Capt. and playing talent were widely recognized, making him an Oakland Athletic League All-City team player, playing alongside teammate and lifelong friend, Ray Goodwin. Bob is acknowledged in the official history of the Tournament of Champions 1952 Semifinals Championship bracket for his points scored (22) and All-Championship mention as a player. He went on to have a successful basketball career as a student attending Modesto State College. From 1954 to 1958 Bob was an active member of the United States Army, serving as a medic at Brooke Army Medical Center. He was proud of his service to his country and to his fellow servicemen and women. During this time, he married Aida Smith. From that union they had three children, Dean, Robin and Jerol. Bob was one of five children born to the late Percy and Adeal Hodges. Bob will forever be remembered by his devoted brother Fred and loving sisters Fay and Gladys, beloved stepdaughter Diana, treasured grandchildren Christian and Nia Hodges, Noah Hodges, along with countless other friends and family whom were blessed to know him. He is preceded in death by a loving brother Luther. Bob loved listening to soul and rhythm and blues music, watching sports, debating politics, laughing, singing, being with his family, having fun with friends and old Hollywood westerns. He touched the lives of many people with his smile and generosity, and maintained his trademark sense of humor and biting wit all the way to the end. In celebration of his home going, friends and extended family are invited to attend a memorial "Quiet Hour" service to reflect and share memories of him on Thurs., Jan. 12th, 2012, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at Stewart's Rose Manor Funeral Home, 3331 MacDonald Ave., Richmond, CA 94804. The family requests that in lieu of cards or donations that you plant a flower in your garden in his memory.