Betty Jean Hodges

Betty Jean Hodges, a woman of deep faith, cherished for her love of flowers, hummingbirds, and sewing skills, passed away on May 16, 2024. Her life was filled with love, laughter, and a deep devotion to her family and faith. 

Betty was born on June 24, 1933, in Redland Community in Leon County Texas.  Betty was an only child, but she grew up with many cousins.  She married Lucian Alvin (LA) Watson in 1949.  They had five children, four sons and one daughter.   She married Charles E. Hodges, Jr. in 1966.

Betty was a stay-at-home mom for several years.  She was a seamstress and worked from home while raising her family.   She later worked for TAMU at the printing press and registrar’s office.  Betty retired after 23 years at TAMU.

Those who knew Betty will always cherish the memories of her independent spirit, boundless creativity, and willingness to help her family in any way possible. She never shied away from sharing her opinions with loved ones and friends, creating lively discussions that will be missed. Family reunions held a special place in Betty's heart, especially the annual Watson Christmas parties. 

A devout Baptist throughout her life, Betty found solace and strength in her faith. Family was paramount to her. Her hobbies included feeding hummingbirds, sewing, and crocheting for friends and family, spending time outdoors enjoying her flowers, and mastering Facebook at the age of 75.  In her later years, Betty enjoyed watching old Western shows on television while sipping a Dr. Pepper and snacking on Little Debbie cakes. Betty had a sweet tooth!

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, Austin Lawrence and Eula Mae Neyland Jenkins; infant son, Donnie Gene Watson, and son, Billy Lynn Watson; and two husbands, LA Watson and Charles Hodges, Jr. 

She is survived by her children, Larry Watson (Katy), Sandy Jones (Robert), and Kenny Watson  (Renee Harter); daughter-in-law Peggy Watson; brother-in-law Hardy Watson (Nancy); and grandchildren, Tom Young (Becky), Aaron   Watson, Austin Watson, Angela Hertel, Teri Lawson (John), Amy Smith (Mark), Lisa Brooks,  Jennifer Makuta, Joshua Jones (Erica), Ricky Watson (Brandy), Kim Ward (Mark), Dawn Marks  (Anthony), Jason Gooch (Stephanie), Lance Dodds, and Ashley Elliot. Betty also leaves behind 39 great-grandchildren, 11 great-great grandchildren, with two more on the way.

The family wishes to acknowledge the special care given to Betty by Five Points Nursing and Rehabilitation and Brazos Valley Hospice. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Brazos Valley Hospice or a charity of your choice.