Lula Gay Hodges, 85, of Avon, passed away Friday, August 28, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born January 9, 1941, in Richlands, Virginia, a daughter of the late Joseph Kyle and Alta Claire (Puckett) Christian. Gay married Paul Thomas Hodges on October 6, 1956. He preceded her in death on October 10, 2006.

Gay had a loving and generous nature and never met a stranger. She loved everyone she encountered, but her family held a special place in her heart. She took great pride in raising her five children, as well as helping care for and raise several of her grandchildren. Her sweet spirit and kindness touched the lives of many, and her family lovingly called her an “angel on earth.” Gay was a lifetime member of Coatesville Primitive Baptist Church.

Survivors include her children, Teresa, Sabrina, Tom II, Sylvia, and Tony; brothers, Robert, Ed, and Michael Christian; sister, Carolyn Holiday; grandchildren, Christie, Justin, Kyle, Amy, David, Christian, Evie, Fletcher, and Charlie; great-grandchildren, Ava, Malea, Marianna, and Raya; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Gay was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Billie Jo.

Family and friends will gather Saturday, September 5, for visitation from 1 to 5 p.m. in the Strawmyer & Drury Mortuary, 2400 N. Lebanon Street, Lebanon.

You are invited to visit the website, www.strawmyerdrury.com, where you may sign her online register and leave a personal message.