Linda Hodge

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Linda Lou Hodge, age 75 of Columbus, passed away at 7:35 PM on April 13, 2022 at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, MO.

Linda was born in Joplin, MO on April 7, 1947 to the union of Clyde H. Henson and Cordelia J. (Ragan) Henson. She was raised in Joplin, and moved to Columbus, KS in 1980 where she continued to reside.

She was “The Best Bank Teller” at Columbus State Bank, and later at Commerce Bank, retiring in 2010. She was a member of the Neutral Methodist Church, and spent her time watching John Wayne movies and spending time with family.

Linda was united in marriage with Gary Wayne Massa on August 9, 1963 in Joplin, MO. He preceded her in death on June 27, 2009. She was later united in marriage with Otto Hodge in Joplin, MO on February 13, 2016. He survives.

Additional survivors include three daughters; Vicki Spear (husband, Doug), Stacy Crain (husband, Jim), and Kelli Hance (husband Rob), all of Columbus; three brothers, Rick Henson (wife, Susan), Randy Henson (wife, Kenda), and Dennis Henson (wife, Tracy), all of Joplin; two sisters, Janice Baker and Clydenne Angel, both of Joplin; ten grandchildren, Chris Spear, Cory Spear, Mathew Michel, Mackenzie Michel, Austin Michel, Cole Hance, Samantha Hance, Jessi Cain, Cody Massa, and Toni Massa; and 14 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Cordelia; her husband, Gary Massa, Sr.; one son, Gary Massa, Jr.; one granddaughter, Hope Hance; two sisters, Bonnie Olds, and Collene McMillan; two brothers, Billy and Frank Henson; and three infant great-grandchildren Aspyn, Arley, and Ayda Hance.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, April 22, 2022 at Derfelt Funeral Home of Columbus. Pastor Neal Anderson will officiate. Pallbearers serving will be Cole Hance, Chris Spear, Cory Spear, Jake Cain, Erol Stone, and E.D. Stone, along with honorary pallbearer, Cody Massa and Eric Stone. Burial will follow at Park Cemetery, Columbus, KS.

Visitation will be held from 6-7:00 PM on Thursday, April 21, 2022 at Derfelt Funeral Home of Columbus.

Memorial contributions may be made to Children’s Miracle Network in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.