Richard D. Hodges, 63, of Hemet, died Feb. 1, 2009, at his home.

Services will be private. Burial will be in Riverside National Cemetery. Hemet Valley Mortuary is handling arrangements.

Mr. Hodges was born and raised in Hemet. He was an automatic mechanic for 15 years. He was a 1963 graduate of Hemet High School.

He served in the Air Force. He did security work for the “Ramona” pageant. He also was a member of Inland Valley Baptist Fellowship and was one of the founding families.

Mr. Hodges is survived by two sons, James Daniel of Hemet and Joseph Daniel of Visalia; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his caregiver and former wife, Laini Freitas of Hemet.

The Valley Chronicle - (Feb/6/2009)