Marie Thornton Hodge born on October 10, 1939, in Lake Butler, FL, was received into the arms of her Lord and Savior on June 19, 2026, at her home in Starke, FL. Marie’s journey was one marked by unwavering devotion, selfless service, and abundant love.

Marie was a shining example of God’s grace manifested in a loving, hospitable, and God-fearing spirit. For thirty-five years, she faithfully served as a secretary and bookkeeper for the Bradford County School District. Yet, her true ministry extended beyond the walls of her workplace. She poured her heart into baking and decorating birthday and wedding cakes, a craft she perfected with joy and creativity. More importantly, she embraced her role as a Sunday school teacher at Pine Level Baptist Church, richly blessing the lives of many children with her patient instruction and nurturing care over many years.

Her home was a sanctuary of unconditional love, reflecting her open heart and open-door policy. Many were graced by her generosity and kindness, experiencing firsthand the warmth and love that flowed abundantly from her spirit.

Marie was preceded in death by her dearly loved parents, Carlos and Vaner Griffis Rosier; her devoted husbands, Jimmy Thornton and Jimmy Hodge; her beloved sons, Marlon and Shane Thornton; and her siblings, Shelbert Rosier, Mary Lou Hillard, Marzelle Wolfe, and Florene Shadd.

She leaves behind her daughters: Cindy (Dan) Dowdy and Donna (Bob) Milner. Her heart’s joy also extended to her grandchildren: Micah (Nicola) Thornton, Matthew (Cher) Thornton, Macy (Adam) McKeon, Daniel Dowdy, Josh (Michelle) Dowdy, Heather (Chris) Trowell, Waylon Thornton, Wendy (Eric) Hall, and Amber (Chad) Appling. The family is further blessed with numerous great-grandchildren who she loved so dearly. Also surviving her are her siblings, Geraldine Anderson and Leo Rosier, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with the funeral service immediately following at 11:00 AM. Both will take place at the Pine Level Baptist Church in Starke, FL. Marie will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Long Branch Cemetery.

As we reflect on Marie’s life, let her legacy remind us to put God first, serve others selflessly, teach with patience, and love with an open door and an open heart.