Elizabeth Ray Peterson Hodge

Reflecting upon a past shared with an exceptional human being is a daunting task. There are very few words to describe Elizabeth: our mother, Dad's sweetheart, the grandchildren's Nana, and the nieces' and nephews' Aunt Liz, who left us today, November 25, 2023.

Living by scripture and Biblical principles, this former public school teacher shared her warm heart and brilliant mind with not only her students, but everyone she encountered. We will remember her beautiful smile and the kindness she shared as well as her love of nature, especially the birds and wildflowers. Granddaughter Amanda Leigh remembers all the things they did with Nana; birthday shopping trips, ginger molasses cookies, Easter bunny cakes, and Christmas dinners. Perhaps the reflection and sentiments of oldest grandchild Rachel Elizabeth says it best: Every time I see a bluebird, smell cinnamon, and eat summer peaches, I will think of you. You were the kindest soul I've ever known. You are irreplaceable. Thank you for all the special memories that I treasure so much. I'm proud to have your name, Elizabeth. I love you, Nana. Rest in peace.

Elizabeth Ray Peterson Hodge was the daughter of Otis Ray and Barbara Elizabeth Peterson, and sister to Sidney Winifred Peterson. She was born in Bakersville, NC on June 9, 1937, but grew up in Morganton, NC. She is survived by husband, Dale; daughter, Beth Julian (Ben); and daughter, Laura Haigler (David). She adored her grandchildren and they adored her: Rachel, Amanda, Erik, Sam, Nick, Alex, and her two granddaughters Kate and Emma. She held close to her heart nephew John Peterson with wife Jackie and their three girls: Sydney, Juliet, and Tenley.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

A graveside service will be held in Woodlawn Cemetery, Blowing Rock, NC, for family and friends at 1:00PM on Thursday, November 30th.