William Earl “Bill” Hodgdon, 72, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with mesothelioma.

Bill was born on September 7, 1953, in Lyndon, Vt., to the late Earl Hodgdon and Esther Mae Hodgdon. He later moved to North Carolina in 1990 to assist with the startup of Carris Reels, a company connected to his work in Vermont, beginning a new chapter rooted in hard work and dedication.

A skilled maintenance mechanic and true “jack of all trades,” Bill worked for several companies over the years, including Talon Systems, Canac, Shur-Tape, and Wimco. He was known for his strong work ethic, mechanical talent, and willingness to lend a hand wherever needed.

Bill had a deep love for the outdoors and found joy in music, hiking, camping, and spending time in nature. He had a special fondness for horses and all animals, and he especially enjoyed working with machines—particularly tractors. A gifted craftsman, Bill loved woodworking and building things with his hands. He was always ready to help others and frequently volunteered his time to those in need.

He was a devoted member of the local congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, where his faith and fellowship were an important part of his life.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Esther Mae Hodgdon; his grandfather, Ardyn Hayward; his brothers, Leonard Hodgdon, Max Hodgdon, and Michael Hodgdon; and his stepdaughter, Jessica Jennings.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ruth Ann Hodgdon; his children, Steven Earl Hodgdon, Jessica Lynn McCann, and Angela Maria Bonnell; and his stepson, Andrew Dwayne Jennings.

He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren,: Zea Hodgdon, Jacy Hodgdon, Zachary Hodgdon, Iris Hodgdon, Ashley Wilkinson, Andrew Dalton Jennings, and Renee Amburn; as well as great-grandchildren Elliott Hodgdon, Sylvia Hodgdon, and Sage Amburn.

A memorial service will be held on April 18 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, located at 318 James Farm Road, Statesville, N.C. The time of the service will be announced.

Bill will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, craftsmanship, and the love he had for his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.