Donald Wayne "Donnie" Hodge

With a personality as colorful as the stories he told—and just as hard to forget—Donald Wayne “Donnie” Hodge brought laughter, creativity, and a bit of mischief wherever he went. Born on February 14, 1969, in Yuma, Arizona, Donnie lived a life fueled by curiosity, adventure, and a deep love for the people around him. If you knew Donnie, you probably laughed—a lot—and likely walked away with a story you’d retell for years.

Raised in a military family, Donnie eventually landed in the New Bern area while his father served in the Marine Corps. His younger years were spent outdoors—hunting, fishing, and exploring—essentially preparing him for a lifetime of both adventure and a very strong knowledge of the best fishing spots. Those early experiences shaped not only his love of nature but also his artistic eye. Whether drawing or sketching wildlife, people, or scenes from memory, Donnie had a gift for bringing things to life—sometimes with a pencil, sometimes just with a really good story.

Before settling into maintenance work, Donnie spent time working on a dairy farm—an experience that helped build his work ethic and appreciation for the outdoors. Later on Donnie spent a lot of time working during industrial shutdowns, doing everything from fixing to repairing, and painting to sandblasting, until a fall from a tower left him with significant injuries, inviting an early retirement.

Donnie was a man of many talents: a skilled cook, a natural storyteller, a great painter, and a firm believer that life is better when you don’t take it too seriously. His love for shows like Ancient Aliens only added to his charm—he may not have had all the answers, but he certainly had theories. And he shared them enthusiastically.

Above all, Donnie loved his family. His heart was as big as the oceans and rivers he loved to fish, and just as steady. He leaves behind his daughter, Carrie Marc (Angelo); sisters, Zandra Hollis (Carl), Tammy Shean (Alton), Kimberly Brunello (Shane), Melissa Cortez, and Tanya Holloway; a host of nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved. Donnie’s loved ones carry forward his humor, his creativity, and his unforgettable spirit. He is now reunited with his father, Earl Hodge (Donna); his mother, Sandra Kay Tomlinson; sister, Kendra Tatum; nephew, Anthony Wayne Witt; niece, Ashley Skye Shean; and great niece, April Garcia Cortez.

A visitation with family and friends will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1207 Forest Drive, New Bern, North Carolina, with a memorial service to follow at 1:00 p.m.

In true Donnie fashion, this isn’t just a goodbye—it’s an invitation. Please share your favorite stories, photos, and memories on his memorial page. Whether it’s a laugh, a lesson, or one of his legendary tales, each memory helps keep his spirit alive. After all, Donnie wouldn’t want a quiet farewell—he’d want a good story, a few laughs, and maybe a fish story that gets slightly bigger every time it’s told.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Donald Wayne “Donnie” Hodge.