Julia ‘Irene’ Groover Hodges, a Statesboro country girl, is described by her family as resilient, dedicated, devoted, supportive, loving, and caring. Best known by her titles of 'Mom' and 'The Pianist', Irene recently celebrated her 86th birthday on July 11, 2024. Even more remarkable, this marks her 75th consecutive year as a pianist for local churches, funeral homes and organizations. Even at 86 she continues to play an active role in her community and home life.
Irene's musical talent began at age 5, and by 11, she was playing at Middle Ground Baptist Church and Eureka Methodist Church. Currently, she is the staff pianist at Joiner-Anderson Funeral Home and Crematory, a position she has held since its founding, and she is the organist and pianist at Statesboro Primitive Baptist Church (for 22 years).
A special musical highlight for Irene was playing the accordion to "Give My Regards to Broadway" at a friend's funeral, which led to an article in a New York paper.
A few treasures about Irene include being the first graduate of Southeast Bulloch High School, Class of 1956, attending Georgia Southern University, and owning her own flower shop, Irene’s Corner. She is also a self-diagnosed breast cancer survivor of 41 years.
Irene met and married the love of her life, WC Hodges, on November 13, 1961. WC was a long-time bachelor, and they made front-page news in the Statesboro paper with their marriage since "no one ever thought he would marry." The Hodgeses have four children: Wade, Paul, Jayne, and Glenn (deceased), along with a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Irene's favorite hobbies include sewing on her embroidery machine and riding her John Deere to cut her grass.
Wherever there is a piano or organ, Irene will gravitate towards it. She has the talent to play both traditional and contemporary songs for church crowds and funerals, delivering sensitive, respectful, uplifting, and comforting music.
Irene Hodges's melodious journey is a mission to bring joy and beauty to the hearts she touches and solace to the sorrowful. May her playing continuously be a source of comfort, strength, and unity to all who listen.
Happy 86th, Irene! Please enjoy a hearty slice of caramel cake, your favorite!
