James N. "Jim" Hodge, Sr., 85, of Lakeland, FL passed away on Monday, January 16, 2023, at the Good Samaritan Center, Dowling Park, FL.  The Auburndale, FL native served in the U.S. Navy as a Parachute Rigger. He worked 27 years as a first-class maintenance mechanic at (I.M.C.) International Mineral and Chemical, Polk County, was owner/operator of Hodge Enterprises Trucking Co. for 12 years and a member of the Bell Baptist Church, Bell, FL.  Mr. Hodge is survived by his wife of 62 years: Arlene F. Hodge, Lakeland; Son: James N. Hodge, Jr. (Shana), Live Oak; Sister: La Verne Phillips, Lakeland; Grandchildren: Ariel Elizabeth Hodge and Jinna Renai Hodge; Numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents: Walter and Nellie Hodge; Daughter: Troy Elizabeth Hodge; Sisters: Mary Lyons, Peggy Gary, and June Thornton. Graveside services will be held at 11:30 am Friday, January 20, 2023, at the Auburndale Memorial Park Cemetery with Pastor Derek Lee officiating. There will be a visitation held prior to the service from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at Kersey Funeral Home, Auburndale, FL.