Ruth Hodges (1930-2025)

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ruth Hodges, a faithful servant of Christ who modeled what it means to be gracious in all things. Ruth’s life reflected her steadfast love for Jesus, her kindness toward others, and her unwavering commitment to living out her faith with humility and grace. 

Ruth and her beloved husband, Ralph Hodges Jr., who passed away in 2021, left an enduring legacy of generosity and devotion to Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Their commitment to Christian higher education has touched thousands of lives through student scholarships and the creation of one of MVNU’s most sacred and inspiring spaces, the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Fine Arts Center. 

The R.R. Hodges Chapel/Fine Arts Center stands as the spiritual heart of the MVNU campus, a place where students, faculty, and staff gather to worship, pray and seek the presence of God. For generations, this sacred space has been the setting for moments of calling, transformation, and renewal. Because of Ruth and Ralph’s vision and generosity, the Chapel/Fine Arts Center will continue to serve as a beacon of faith, a place where hearts are shaped, lives are changed, and the mission of MVNU to shape Christlike leaders is lived out each day. 

Their love for Christ, His people, the Church, and MVNU continues to inspire our community. We thank God for the lives of Ruth and Ralph Hodges, for their example of faithfulness, and for the way their legacy will continue to shape generations of students who seek to learn and serve in the name of Jesus Christ. 

— Dr. Carson Castleman, President of MVNU