Phyllis Hodgson

Phyllis Hodgson (Dander) passed away at home listening to music with family by her side on October 19, 2022, at the age of 80 years old in Loves Park, IL. Phyllis grew up in, and was a long-time resident of Genoa, IL. She was born on July 10th, 1942, to Fred and Ethel Dander. She graduated from Genoa-Kingston High School in 1960 and remained a faithful G-K Cogs fan her entire life, with her children and many of her grandchildren also graduating from Genoa-Kingston. Phyllis was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church of Genoa and was a waitress at Robinson’s Family Inn in Genoa for many years. Phyllis loved the holidays, especially decorating the house and baking desserts for all her grandchildren, whom she loved unconditionally. Her baking is something that her family always looked forward to and will miss dearly. She loved to play cards and games with her family every time they were together. Phyllis was a devoted sports fan, she faithfully followed the Chicago Cubs, Bears, and Bulls. But most of all, she loved attending and celebrating her children’s and grandchildren’s activities and accomplishments. There was nothing that brought her more joy than being a Grandma.  Phyllis was an independent soul who rarely asked for help. She kept a garden and enjoyed yard work well into her late 70’s. Although she was a quiet, reserved person, her family could always count on her to tell them what they needed to hear, even if it was not something they wanted to hear. She had a dry sense of humor that came out at the most unexpected times, and her loving honesty was appreciated by all who knew her. Phyllis’ quick wit will be dearly missed. She is survived by her three children: Ken Hodgson of Genoa, IL; Kelly (Michelle) Hodgson of Pasco, WA; Kolee Hodgson of Loves Park, IL; daughter in law Jenny Barta of Genoa, IL; eight grandchildren: Derek (Cory) Hodgson, Deniel (Travis) Robbins, Cody Hodgson, Ellee Holden, Sophia Hodgson, Brandon Hodgson, Hayden Hodgson, and Nolan Piske; two great-grandchildren: Brooke and Luke; two brothers: John (Rose) Dander of Palmetto, FL, and Ken (Lynn) Dander of Genoa, IL; and many special nieces, nephew, and their children. Phyllis was preceded in death by her “Daddy” Fred and “Mother” Ethel Dander, and special cousin and friend Melody Lail.  A celebration in honor of Phyllis’ life will be held in the spring of 2023 at her childhood home in Genoa, IL. Her family would like to thank the Mercy Health at Home Hospice team, especially Cassi and Tammy, for the care and comfort they provided during Phyllis’ last days. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 712 Windsor Road, Loves Park, Illinois 61111.