Hal "Wayne" Hodges, 86, of Conway, SC, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Conway Medical Center. Born in Banner Elk, NC, on April 20, 1939, Wayne was the son of the late Homer Ira Hodges and Arline Baliff Hodges. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Audrey Faye Reynolds, and his beloved wife, Janet.

Wayne was truly one of a kind. God broke the mold when He made him. Known as one of the hardest-working men you could ever meet, he built his life with grit, determination, and deep pride in his Appalachian roots, always putting family first and living by the phrase "stay straight," a reminder to follow the rules and do right by others. For more than 30 years, he owned and operated his own sheet rock business, providing for his family and earning the respect of many. Most people knew him as either Wayne or "Pappy," a name lovingly bestowed upon him by his two eldest grandchildren and soon adopted by everyone, whether they had known him for years or had only just met him. He had many joys throughout his life -tending to his cows and farm, walking the land to check fences, and taking in the beauty of the place he loved most. From a young age, he enjoyed whittling wood, a hobby that became one of his favorite pastimes later in life. He also took great pride in his home, meticulously working in his yard to keep it clean-cut and pure perfection, a reflection of his belief that you should always be proud of what is yours and what you've worked for.

Wayne loved to drive simply to take in the scenery, often setting out just to enjoy the view. A proud Southern man, he wouldn't hesitate to pull over and gather Spanish moss so he could bring a little piece of the South back to his yard.

Sports were always close to his heart. Whether it was football, basketball, or baseball, Wayne to watch a good college game and he was especially devoted to cheering on the USC Gamecocks women's basketball team. When a game wasn't on, his TV was likely tuned to the news.

He also enjoyed music, particularly bluegrass and the timeless voices of George Jones, Don Williams, and Waylon Jennings.

He will be remembered for the simple treasures he never outgrew: a pinch or two of chewing tobacco, an RC Cola, a bowl of popcorn, a sharp sense of style, and a good laugh. Known for his Appalachian drawl and his storytelling, Wayne was unforgettable to all who knew him. Wayne leaves behind his son, Carl Wayne Hodges, and his daughter, Paula Hodges Daulton. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Brandy Starnes (Matt), Derek Hodges (Ashley), Drew Harriman (Natalie), Lannah Williamson (Joseph), and Nathan Hodges, as well as four great-grandchildren, Wesley Parker, Wyatt Starnes, Allie Starnes, and Aspen Hodges. He will also be missed by many other extended family members and friends who were blessed to know him.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, September 28, 2025 at Watson Funeral Services Chapel. The family will receive friends after the service. Please sign a guestbook at watsonfuneralservices.com or goodshepherdfuneralhome.net.

Watson Funeral Services and Crematory, Conway, SC is serving the family.