Dorothy Jean Rivers Hodge

Funeral arrangements have been finalized.  The Funeral is scheduled for Sunday, July 5, 2026. The Visitation will begin at 1:30 PM and 2 PM for the Celebration pf Her Life Ceremony which will be held at Lincoln Park Holiness Church. The Church is located at 13 Heath Street in the city of Raleigh. The zip code is 27610.

September 28, 1958 – June 28, 2026

Dorothy Jean Rivers Hodge, affectionately known to the community as "Aunt Dot" or simply "Dot," peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at WakeMed Medical Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. Born on September 28, 1958, in Raleigh, she was the beloved daughter of the late Mr. Edward Rivers and Mrs. Dorothy Byrd Rivers. Dorothy was the kind of woman who truly "showed up and showed out," never leaving anything incomplete, and bringing her full heart to everything she did.

Dot was a proud 1976 graduate of William G. Enloe High School. That very same year, she met and married the love of her life, Este Hodge, Jr. Together, they built a life of devotion and raised two beautiful daughters, Latasha Anaga and Secorea Dunn. Dot was a resilient woman who believed firmly in common sense and telling it like it is. She loved her family deeply and proudly, standing as a devoted wife and mother.

Her faith was her anchor. Dot was a devoted, long-time member of Lincoln Park Holiness Church, where she served faithfully on numerous auxiliaries. Her absolute favorite role was serving as the Vice President of the Lincoln Park Junior Choir, where she poured her love and guidance into the youth.

To know Aunt Dot was to know her kitchen. She was legendary for her cooking and baking, and there was always an open seat at her table. No one could visit her home without leaving with a full stomach—a good old chicken sandwich and a slice of her famous homemade cake would truly do your soul good. Her home was a safe haven that spoke volumes about her nurturing, maternal spirit.

Dot was a pillar of her community, wise beyond her years, dependable, and exceptionally generous. She possessed an eye for beauty, taking great joy in interior design, sewing, and fashion. She took immense pride in how she dressed, always making sure every single piece of her outfit was perfectly put together. Above all, she found her ultimate happiness in human connection—whether through an unexpected visit, a phone call, or a thoughtful Facebook post. She had a rare, beautiful way of making everyone feel seen and loved.

Dorothy was greeted in heaven by her devoted husband of over 40 years, Este Hodge, Jr.; her parents, Edward and Dorothy Rivers; and her sister, Joyce Teresa Jeffreys.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and vibrant beauty to be cherished by her family:

Her Loving Daughters: Latasha Anaga and Secorea Dunn.

Her Siblings: Brothers, Edward (Emilda) Rivers and James (Phyllis) Rivers; and Sister, Debra James.

Her beloved Granddog, Little Foot

Three nephews, five nieces, sixteen great-nephews, eight great-nieces, one great-great-niece, and one great-great-nephew.

The family extends a heartfelt note of gratitude to her Uncle JB and her great-niece, Denisha Jeffreys, for their exceptional care and love.

A host of extended family members, church family, and dear friends will forever hold Aunt Dot's memory in their hearts. Her joyful presence, wise counsel, and beautiful spirit will never be forgotten.