Joan Crown Hodges passed away in her home in Richmond, surrounded by loved ones, on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024.
Born on Nov. 10, 1969, Joan dearly loved her family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Art Hodges; son, Cole Hodges; daughter-in-law, Sophie Smith; mother, Mary Almond; and siblings Joyce Crown-Wilkins, John Crown III, and Jody Crown, along with extended family members.
She was predeceased by her father, John Crown Jr.
Joan was a witty writer, orator, and distinguished teacher (M.Ed., NBCT). A graduate of Middlesex High School (Class of 1987), she returned home to teach at St. Clare Walker Middle School for approximately five years. She spent most of her career teaching middle school English in Henrico County.
She loved the adventure of living with her family and teaching in Japan for six years. Joan retired after 28 years to embark on a new path as a marketing editor for RK&K. Although she left to fight lung cancer full-time, her family is grateful to the company and her coworkers for the support and grace they gave her during her short tenure.
Joan’s biggest gift was making connections with people; so she traveled, volunteered, advocated, officiated weddings, and instigated shenanigans. Being a mom to Cole was her greatest joy.
A service is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10, at First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to CancerLINC or the Daily Planet.
