Marion Anita Hodges

Marion Anita Ballard Hodges, daughter of Atty J. E. Ballard and Mrs. Magnolia Pharr Ballard was born June 20th 1931, in Jackson, Tennessee. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved brother, Franklin L. Ballard. 

She was educated in the private and public schools of Jackson, Tennessee. She was a member of St. Paul C.M.E church before converting to Catholicism as a young adult.

After graduating from Merry High School she attended Lane College, graduating with honors after three years. She later graduated from Indiana University with a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling. She also attended Tennessee State University and George Peabody Teacher’s College.

In 1962, she was hired by then president of Lane College, C.A. Kirkendoll as a counselor and recruiter for Lane College first Upward Bound Program, a position she held for forty-three years. Her teaching career began in the Jackson City Schools. She was a sponsor for the Beta Club and the school newspaper. She was honored as the Southwest Outstanding Advocate for Children in 1993. Her love and passion working with students led her to become a teacher, probation officer, and counselor with the Jackson Madison County Juvenile Court System after school for twenty-three years.

Professionally, she was a member of the local and state guidance counselor organization, serving on the state level as secretary. She was also a member of the Southeastern Economic Opportunity Personnel programs. She served in many civic boards and associations as an appointee and volunteer, among them being Jackson Mental Health Board, Boys’ and Girls’ Club and Women’s Rape and Resource programs.

Socially, she was a Golden member and Soror of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She belonged to many civic and social organizations.

Cherishing her memory are her devoted children: Anita Jimette Taylor (Therron), Jeri Janita Wicker (Richard) and Jeffrey Emil Hodges, nephews: Frank Ballard, Jr and Houston Ballard, cousins: Patricia Hunt, Jimmy Green and June Pharr. She was also blessed to have had in her life dedicated extended family and friends: Leo Wilks, Monola Patterson, Helen Hart, Lorraine Gill and a host of loving friends.