Thomas Edward 'Tommy' Hodges, age 60, of Arnett Hollow Road, Vilas, passed away Sunday evening, March 13, 2022 at Watauga Medical Center. Born March 20, 1961 in Avery County, he was a son of Oscar and Wava Yarber Hodges. Tommy was a man who loved the simple things in life, always joking, never met a stranger, and was willing to give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He was an avid bear hunter. Mr. Hodges is survived by his sons, Edward Hodges and wife, Mary of Vilas and Christopher Hodges and wife, Amy, of Beech Creek; his mother, Wava Hodges of Vilas; grandchildren, Finley, Blake, Alexis, Kendra and Taylor Hodges; brothers and sister, Blaine Hodges, and Aaron Hodges, both of Vilas, and Beverly Broschinski and husband, Rudy, of Sugar Grove; and his special friend, Ellen 'Squeak' Dotson. A number of nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded by his father, Oscar Finley Hodges. Graveside services for Tommy Hodges will be conducted Thursday afternoon, March 17th at 1 o'clock at the Danner Cemetery, officiated by Rev. Jason Cornett. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening, March 16th, from 5 until 7 o'clock at the Austin & Barnes Funeral Home. The family suggests memorials may be made to the Danner Cemetery Fund, in care of David Hodges, 1075 Laurel Fork Road, Vilas, NC 28692. Online condolences may be shared at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Hodges family.