Jareld "J.D." Don Hodges

Jareld Don “J.D.” Hodges, 82, passed away on February 17, 2026, at Mountain Home, Arkansas surrounded by his family. He was born on October 2, 1943, in Lanton, Missouri, to Rufus Hodges and Glessner (Lamons) Hodges.

On July 17, 1964, J.D. married the love of his life, Carolyn Sue Vaughn, in Salem, Arkansas. Together they built a strong and loving home and were blessed with two children. Their marriage of more than sixty years was a testament to devotion, faith, and enduring love.

J.D. dedicated 28 years of service as a road grader operator for the Fulton County Road Department. He took pride in his work and the role he played in serving his community. A faithful member for over forty-five years of the Thayer Freewill Baptist Church, J.D.’s faith was an important part of his life.

He found great joy in caring for his cows and tending to his farm. He loved “piddling” in the garage, always finding something to fix or improve. Above all, J.D.’s greatest happiness came from his family. He treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren, rarely missing a ballgame and cheering proudly from the sidelines. He also had a special place in his heart for his grand dogs, Roxie and Raven.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn Hodges of Salem, Arkansas; his daughter, Sheila Hickinbotham (Paul) of Salem, Arkansas; his son, Michael Hodges (Kelly) of Elizabeth, Arkansas; his granddaughter, Cassi Burk (Lonny Brown) of Salem, Arkansas; and four great-grandchildren, Natalie Burk, Weston Burk, Kenly Brown, and Hadley Brown. He is also survived by his brother, Hank Hodges (Nancy) of Clinton, Kansas; and his sister-in-law, Emma Justus of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his father- and mother-in-law, Fred and Fern Vaughn; three brothers, Dean, Darrell, and Boyd Hodges; two sisters, Delores McKinney and Dorilleen Vaughn; and his brother-in-law, James Vaughn.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas, with Bro. Melvin Haas officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until service time on Friday at the funeral home. Interment will follow the services at Hatfield Cemetery in Koshkonong, Missouri.

Pallbearers will be Steve Justus, David Fletcher, Shawn Justus, Dustin Vaughn, James Lee Vaughn, and Gaylon Justus. Honorary pallbearers are Paul Hickinbotham, Natalie Burk, Lonny Brown, Weston Burk, Damian Vaughn, and Ronnie Vaughn.

Memorials may be made to Hatfield Cemetery in Koshkonong, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.