Meril William Hodges, Jr.

Mr. Meril William Hodges, Jr., 80, of Healdton, peacefully passed away on January 11, 2026, in Duncan, Oklahoma. He was born on May 2, 1945, in Horns Corner, Oklahoma, to the late Mr. Meril William (Red) Hodges and Mrs. Betty Ruth (Eakins) Hodges.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 P.M. on Friday, January 16, 2026, at East Lincoln Church of Christ, with Jared Wilson officiating. Interment will follow at Simon Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Healdton.

Meril spent his formative years in Horns Corner, attending school at Courtney, Simon, Purnell, and graduated from Graham High School in 1963. He then honorably served in the United States Army for five years. On January 8, 1966, he married LaRay and the couple built a loving home that journeyed through Lawton, Guthrie, and Chickasha, influenced by Meril's work in the oilfield.

With a deep passion for ranching, Meril joined Gail Bounds/Brady Ranch in 1971 while residing in Healdton which later became Flying J, working for the ranch for over 30 years. He later established Healdton Feed and Supply in 2004, which he managed until retirement to care for his beloved wife, LaRay, who preceded him in death on March 22, 2024.

Meril's commitment to service extended beyond his profession; he was an active member of the Fox/Graham Fire Departments, serving as both assistant fire chief and president of the board for many years. He was known for his positive outlook on life, his sociable nature, and his ability to foster connections with those around him. His cherished moments were often spent with his great-grandson, Hunter, alongside his family.

In addition to his parents and wife, Meril was preceded in death by his brother, Johnny Hodges; sisters, Martha Parsons and Susie Lazos; and nephew, Micheal Lazos.

He is survived by his children, Lynn Hodges of Elmore City and Sandra Hodges of Healdton; grandchildren, Cody Hodges, Ashley Hodges, and Angel Shelley; great-grandchildren, Hunter Opsahl, Emma Shelley, Ronan Hodges, and Porsha Taylor; great great grandson, Hudson Opsahl; along with his brothers and sisters-in-law, Pat Martin and husband Gary, Dewayne McCarty and wife Wetona; many loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and a host of other family and friends.

Pallbearers for the service will be Craig Hurst, Kevin Martin, Dewayne McCarty, Hunter Opsahl, Johnny Williams, Warren Williams, Frankie Williams, JP Parsons, and Cody Hodges. Honorary bearers include Lynn Hodges, Luke Hodges, Doug Farris, Daiel Farris, Ryan Blakemore, Odis Blakemore, Clint Blakemore, Gary Martin, Jim Harris, Allen Murray, the members of Fox/Graham Firemen, and the men of Lincoln Church of Christ.

Visitation will be held on Thursday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Healdton.

Memories and condolences can be shared at www.alexandergrayfh.com.