Walter Leon Hodges, Sr. passed away on Saturday, July 23, 2016 at the age of 88. He was the cherished husband of Virginia Brown Hodges for 50 years. Loving father of John Paul Hodges, Mark Peter Hodges, Margaret H. Frazier (Richard) and Walter L. Hodges Jr. (Angie). Son of the late Cheatham E. and Marie Smith Hodges. He was the proud grandfather of six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters. Walter was a decorated United States Navy Veteran and proudly served in World War II and the Korean Conflict. His service (Vessels and Stations) included U.S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, IL; U.S. Naval Hospital, Corpus Christi, TX; Third Marine Brigade; First Marine Division; First Provisional Casual Battalion, Force Troops, FMF, Pacific 1st Separate Surgical Company, FMF, Camp Pendleton, CA. Walter received many medals including the National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Silver Star Medal, Commendation Ribbon with Combat “V” and Korean Service Ribbon. He was honorably discharged with a rank of Hospital Corpsman Second Class. Walter was a BTJ Pipefitter and a member of UA Local 60 Plumbers and Steamfitters. He retired after 44 years of service. Walter was very generous with his time and volunteered at the Veterans Affairs Administration for many years. Walter will be forever remembered and deeply missed by his friends and family. Relatives and friends were invited to attend a visitation held at Mary Queen Of Vietnam Catholic Church, 14001 Dwyer Blvd., LA on Monday, August 1, 2016. Military honors followed. Inurnment will take place privately at a later date in Biloxi National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite charity in memory of Walter L. Hodges, Sr. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com