Houston Baptist University celebrated the life of Dr. Edward D. (Doug) Hodo, Sr. on Friday, November 11, 2016. Dr. Hodo passed away on October 10, 2016, at 81 years old. From 1987 to 2006, Dr. Hodo served as the second President of HBU, and he was honored as President Emeritus from 2006 to 2016. The memorial service was held in Belin Chapel inside the Morris Cultural Arts Center and was live-streamed for those who could not attend.
Many friends of Dr. Hodo and of the University participated in the memorial service, including current and former members of the Board of Trustees: Dr. Ed Seay ’73, Ray Cox ’81, Dr. Diane Williams ’93, and David Stutts ’82; HBU President Dr. Robert B. Sloan, Jr.; and Vice President Emeritus Dr. Don Looser. The audience joined together in singing Amazing Grace, a beautiful reminder of how the life we leave is a breath compared to eternity with the Father in heaven.
The music composition “Feed my sheep” was performed by Dr. Daniel Kramlich and Schola Cantorum, conducted by Dr. John Yarrington. Dr. Kramlich composed “Feed my sheep” for Dr. Hodo’s presidential inauguration in 1987. Dr. Rhonda Furr delivered an organ solo of “Celebration on Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee,” which she composed in 1997 in honor of Dr. Hodo’s tenth anniversary as HBU President.
Sadie Branch Hodo, Dr. Hodo’s wife, attended the memorial service with several other family members. The University continues to mourn with Dr. Hodo’s family while also remembering that because of his faith in Jesus Christ as Lord, Dr. Hodo is in a far better place.
In honor of the Hodo family, The Guild graciously hosted a reception in McNair Hall following the memorial service.
Read more about Dr. Hodo’s life and the impact he had on HBU.