R. Garey Hodge, 85, of Springfield, passed away on May 29, 2023 at Villa Healthcare East in Sherman. R. Garey was born on July 27, 1937 in Moweaqua, Illinois, the son of Chester B. and Jean Stine Hodge. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers: Robert S. Hodge and Chester B. Hodge Jr., and one sister Audrey C. Carnegie.

R. Garey taught art in the Springfield School district from 1962 until 1994 when he retired from Springfield High School. He received his Bachelor of Science in Art Education and Masters of Arts degree, with distinction, in painting and art history from Eastern Illinois University. He was known for his sports theme drawings and acrylic paintings he exhibited in numerous states.

He was a partner and on the Board of Directors of the C.R. Davis Company in Springfield. He was a member of St. Paul's Lodge No. 500 A.F. & A.M., Scottish Rite Consistory, Springfield York Rite, Knights Templar, Ansar Shrine, Ansar Mounted Cowboys Unit, Royal Order of Jesters and he was a Kentucky Colonel. R. Garey was the Past President of the Springfield Chapter, National Society of Sons of the American Revolution.

A masonic service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 9, 2023 at Bisch and Son Funeral Home, Springfield, IL. The family will greet friends after the masonic service until 7:00 p.m., also at the funeral home. A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 10, 2023 at Westside Cemetery in Moweaqua, IL. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children.