Courtney Jean "C.J." Hodges

Courtney Jean “C.J.” Hodges, of Saint Charles, MO, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2025 at the age of 35. Beloved daughter of Jean Marie and Mark Douglas Hodges; dear sister of Brendan Hodges and Chase Hodges; cherished granddaughter of Tom and Jeanne Hodges and the late Al and Helen Creech; treasured niece of Pam (the late Lonnie) Luesse, Mike (Kim) Hodges, and Sherrie (Ron) Ransom, the late Pat Wesling and the late Chris Creech; loving cousin, many she called aunts and uncles, dear friend to all; loving boyfriend and partner to Ben Purk.

Courtney was a proud teacher who dedicated her career to teaching children with special needs and saw the ability in all of them, a calling she cherished deeply. She also coached Special Olympics, pouring her heart into supporting her students both in and out of the classroom. She taught a Monroe Elementary, St. Charles High School, and Nike Elementary. She also worked at the DDRB in St. Charles as a case manager advocating for adults with disabilities.

A lifelong sports fan, Courtney was the biggest Kentucky basketball fan you’d ever meet; a passion passed down from her great-grandmother. A little superstitious, she often repeated the same routines to help ensure a win. She graduated from St. Charles High School in 2008, where she played basketball and softball, and later earned her bachelor’s degree from Lindenwood University.

Courtney had a personality larger than life. A true social butterfly, she loved meeting new people, planning outings, and spending time with her family. She enjoyed traveling and cherished days spent at the lake. She touched countless lives with her warmth and energy, and her absence will be deeply felt. Courtney was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Memorials may be made in Courtney's name to The Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis and Community Living Adult Recreation.