Eugene M. Hodge

Eugene M. “Gene” Hodge, 90, of Midland, passed away on September 17, 2024. Funeral Service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Midland on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 10:30 a.m.

Gene was born on August 2, 1934, in Albuquerque, NM. His parents, Wilson and Sylvia Hodge, raised a kind, strong-willed, optimistic, humble man. After graduating from high school, he married his best friend, Peggy (Peg) J. Graves on November 16, 1952, in Jal, New Mexico.

During his early years growing up in Jal, New Mexico, Gene played football, ran track and marched in the band for the Mighty Jal Panthers. During his senior year of high school, he worked evening tower on a drilling rig while attending school, participating in sports, and marching in the band. He loved music, playing both the guitar and trumpet. He attempted to learn to play cello but said it was too heavy to hold like a guitar.

During his later years, he enjoyed playing tennis, golf, and reading.  As a devoted oil man, he and his family moved all over Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. He was an enthusiastic mentor and often referred to himself as the “greatest frac salesman that ever lived”. He worked for the Western Company, started Smith Energy Services, and worked for Cudd in Midland, retiring at age 86.

Gene was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Peg Hodge, and his parents, Wilson and Sylvia Hodge. He is survived by his son, Bob Hodge, and his wife, Kris, of Midland, and his daughter Cynthia Daniel, of Houston. He was very proud of and dearly loved his six grandchildren, Olivia Tabor; Jeni Anderson (John); Amy Anderson (Dave); Claire Kelly (Ryan); Meredith Vecchio (Brandon); and Madeline Springer (Travis); and eight great-grandchildren Jaydon Clegg; Evie and Alice Anderson; Henry and Amelia Anderson; Frances and George Kelly; and Luke Vecchio.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Midland or the First Presbyterian Church of Midland.

Cremation arrangements were under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory in Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.

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