Morley Francis Hodder
February 13, 1929 to March 5, 2024
Obituary
Morley Francis Hodder passed away peacefully surrounded by love, on March 5, 2024 at the age of 95, after a brief illness at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital.
He is predeceased by his beloved parents Frank and Rose Hodder, his precious wife Vera, and sister Lorraine.
He leaves behind his only brother Eric Hodder and a huge number of nieces, nephews, and beloved friends both here in Newfoundland and all over the world. He had so many people that he loved dearly. His beloved sister-in-law Ellen Mercer who called him faithfully every Sunday from New Hampshire USA and his nephew, Charles Taylor, NYC, and his many colleagues and friends from MUN and Queens College
When my dear Uncle Morley asked me to write his obituary, he asked that I keep it very very simple. No mention of his education etc. I am afraid I will just have to break that promise just a little. I was always so very proud of his academic accomplishments. At a time when it was very difficult to afford a good education, Uncle Morley attended McGill University. He returned to Newfoundland and became the United Church minister in Springdale, NL.
He then realized that he wanted to further his education. He attended Boston University and completed his Masters in theology. This was followed by a period of studying and working in Edinburgh, Scotland. He then made his decision to return to Boston and complete his PhD. He often said the work was difficult but with the support and love from Vera, he completed his doctorate studies. They then moved to Toronto where he took a position as chaplain for the University of Toronto. They remained there for several years until he received a call from Memorial University of NL. He was asked if he would consider returning to NL to help start a department of Religious Studies. He loved teaching and he loved his students. Many of those students still kept in touch. When I try to think of how to describe my uncle I think he was above all a very humble and spiritual man. He was incredibly kind and generous. He had a wonderful sense of humor.
At Morley’s request there will be a cremation, but no church service or visitation. Interment service will take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery at a later date, to be announced.
Morley had requested that in lieu flowers, donations be made to The Gathering Place.
We will miss you always.
Condolences to his family and his loved ones
I never got to meet Morley as an adult but we spoke on the phone occasionally and in the last few years of his life we exchanged emails frequently. He was a wonderful man.
Morley baptized me as a baby in Torrance CA. My Mother, Dora Hodder Mouland spoke dearly of Morley and his wife Vera through the years.
About two years ago I told him that I and my brother, Wayne, were thinking of visiting him the following summer. I remember him telling me Why wait, I’m not getting any younger. How I wish I had taken his advice and came to Newfoundland.
I will miss Morley very much.
Sherri (Mouland) Mehrvar
Sandra and I were very sorry to learn of the death of Morley. He hired me when I came to teach at Memorial in 1975 and he and Vera were so very welcoming and supportive when Sandra joined me the following year. He was a colleague and a mentor to me throughout my career at Memorial. He will be missed but not forgotten by those who benefitted from knowing him. Terry and Sandra Murphy
I was enriched in many ways for having known Morley since he interviewed me in Toronto in 1981 for a position in the Department of Religious Studies. For several decades we associated as colleagues and friends at MUN and at Queen’s College. His helpful and kind character brightened many lives during his long career as teacher and administrator. We will miss Morley as a light on our common journey. Rest in peace, dear friend!
Hans and Marcella Rollmann.
Dr. Hodder was one of my favourite professors in the late 1970’s. I later met him briefly one day at the corner of Bloor and Yonge in Toronto. As a young out gay man, I felt respected and valued by Dr. Hodder, a feeling dissimilar to what I felt from some other people at the time, within and outside the academic and faith communities where I was living and learning. I am glad that he lived a long life and that he died surrounded by love. My condolences to his family and friends.
I have met some great teachers in my life, in grade school, university and as colleagues. Dr. Hodder was one of the more significant. As well as an excellent university educator, Dr. Hodder, by virtue of the person he was, taught us the very important virtues of kindness, humility, patience and the constant ability to understand. All were welcomed and respected. Thank you Dr. Hodder for the many opportunities to learn not only the skills of a good educator but also what it means to be an authentic person. Rest well, Dr. Hodder, in the eternal peace you have most richly deserved.
Dr.Hodder was the epitome of learning ,kindness and understanding .He was a constant source of wise advice for everyone at Memorial,including his beloved students and staff ,as well as Presidents ,Deans and faculty .He was a steady hand on the tiller..I remember working with him on several advisory committees that
dealt with sensitive issues endemic in institutional life. He was patient,tolerant , fair-minded and always
judicious in the midst of complex and competing interests.Everyone felt the loss of his good counsel when he retired from Memorial University.,but everyone knew he was always there for guidance.We shall miss his presence and send heartfelt condolences to his family.
Dr. Hodder was one of my favourite people to stop in the hall in the old temporary building at MUN to have a chat with. I remember him blessing my son Mitchell after bringing him into work 5 days after he was born. He was such a sweet and caring man. I was truly blessed to have known him over the years in the Religious Studies department at MUN.
Professor Hodder was one of my favourite religious studies profs at MUN, along with Sheldon MacKenzie (Dr. Mac). They made a great team. Professor Hodder was compassionate, interested in his students, lively, and usually smiling. He told a story once about overlapping at Boston College with Rev. Martin Luther Ling Jr. He was dedicated to Christian values and social justice. He will be missed.
Sending condolences to Eric and family. We were saddened to hear of Morley’s passing and remember him fondly. He was a scholar and gentleman,. Many the memories made help you during this difficult time. RIP Reverend Morley Hodder.
I was a student of the fine gentleman nearly 40 years ago and of all my professors he is one of those that stood out prominently. He was such a great, honourable, compassionate, gentle and kind man. Reverend/Doctor Hodder impacted my life with his contribution in moulding me in my life’s journey and that will never be forgotten and always appreciated. Godspeed to this man of God.
I first met Morley in 1967 when he was a chaplain at the University of Toronto and I was a graduate theology student. He hired me in 1970 to teach a summer course in Religious Studies at M..U.N. and the following year I joined the department full-time and shared the ethics courses with him until I moved on in 1984. Among his many fine qualities, I would mention two in particular: kindness and humility. I am exceedingly grateful to him for his friendship and support during all these years.
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of such a wonderful man. He truly embodied kindness, gentleness and an unparalleled sense of humour. His caring nature and thoughtfulness brightened many lives, including mine. I will always cherish the uplifting cards he sent, arriving at just the right moments, as if he knew exactly what I needed.
Our conversations were always a highlight, filled with laughter, stories and his love for Montreal. His presence brought warmth and joy to every interaction, and his absence will be deeply felt.
I will cherish the memories of his kindness and laughter always, and I feel that I have been very fortunate to have known him and loved him.
With heartfelt sympathy to all his family and friends,
Lisa Johnson
I knew Dr Hodder at Gower Street Church and as my professor in Religious Studies at Memorial. He was kind, compassionate and an honour to call him my friend. We all enjoyed his classes so much. He was interesting and inspiring and truly cared about his students. When he preached during Good Friday services at Gower, he brought us into the time and moment in a special way. Gentle, devoted, a sense of humour. Would that the world had more like him. My deepest sympathy.
What a lovely, lovely person. He had such an impact on me and my university studies. Going to class was always a pleasure. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Please know that his impact on others, including us students, was tremendous. Condolences to his family and friends.
I’m saddened to read this … I met him while I was working at Breens and he would come in for a bowl of turkey soup. He was the absolute sweetest man ever
Dr. Hodder remains one of my favourite professors. I had him for a total of 4 courses, 2 in homiletics and 2 in ethics. He was a knowledgeable professional who validated my abilities and challenged me to reach my full potential. He was a wonderful human being whose charming presence added a light to any room. Rest easy, Dr. Hodder. “May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.”
Rest easy my dear sweet friend. Thank you for being a part of my life.
Val , Sincerest of condolences on the passing of your Uncle Morley. Wishing you peace and happiness in the days ahead.
My most sincere condolences to his family and friends. Rest well my friend.
Condolences to Eric and family. So sorry to hear of your brother’s passing. I’m sure you have wonderful memories of him. Accept my deepest sympathy. May God Bless you at this sad time
Ruth
Dr Morley Hodder treated everyone equally, he loved people and people loved him. I got to know him while at Queen’s and we had quite a few conversations over the years. He was always an encouragement to the students and loved to support them in their respective calling/ministry regardless of denominational/faith background. We went out for evening meals from time to time and shared telephone calls during Covid to pray for one another. I had the honour a few days ago to visit with him and his niece and pray with him. Little did I know it would be my last time seeing him. Take your rest with those who have gone before you. You will always be remembered as “The Doctor who cared.”
Morley was a very personable and avuncular man, and I will always remember his kind and affectionate manner. He was Head of the Department of Religious Studies, a Department which he started, when I was first hired in 1985. He was supportive and kind to me as a friend and a colleague, and was extremely well liked by his students. He will be missed.
Dr. Hodder was a very kind and generous man and a wonderful teacher. I remember being greatly impressed when he invited our Religious Studies class to his home for dinner and I am sure he did that with every class he taught. We were very welcomed by him and his lovely wife Vera. In later years, I would occasionally chat with him in the supermarket and he was always engaging and engaged. I have nothing but the utmost admiration and respect for Dr. Hodder who was and will remain a beacon of goodness in this world. Sincere sympathy to all his family. Violet Kerr
Dr Hodder was one of my favourite teachers at MUN.
He was kind and inclusive and ecumenical and one of the finest Christian gentlemen I have ever met.
He continued to be a friend and mentor to his
Students. He was a scholar and shared his love for learning about religions and spirituality with many people.
I will offer Mass for him at the Basilica.
Fr. Cecil Critch
Dr Hodder was one of my favourite teachers at MUN.
He was kind and inclusive and ecumenical and one of the finest Christian gentlemen I have ever met.
He continued to be a friend and mentor to his
Students. He was a scholar and shared his love for learning about religions and spirituality with many people.
I will offer Mass for him at the a Basilica.
Fr. Cecil Critch
I had the privilege of being with Morley in many different contexts … and he was always the same Morley. He was a man of character and virtue. He was always respectful and an enthusiastic participant at the seminar table with students, conference table with Faculty Council, Table of the Eucharist with Queen’s College Community, and our kitchen table with Donna, Chris, Chloe, and me. We know that he is now gone to his just reward..
Rick Singleton
Val and Doug – I have heard you talk of Uncle Morley so very fondly for many years. Undoubtedly he was a significant presence in your life and will be deeply missed.
Take care and know I’m here for you.
Libby
To Morley’s Family and Friends: I join with countless others in giving thanks for Morley’s life and work. His advice was welcome when I was a student, both in and outside his class; when a colleague his wisdom and insight was appreciated. And I was always grateful to him in that, when a student supply at Musgrave Harbour, he presided at the marriage of my parents.
I had the privilege of knowing Morley and Vera for the past 20 years, a period during which they both profoundly impacted my life with their unique spirits and kindness. Morley, in particular, became a cherished friend, with whom I shared a fondness for single malt scotch. Our monthly gatherings to enjoy a wee dram and discuss our scotch selection of the evening are moments I will always remember.
After Vera’s passing, Morley and I continued our tradition in a new form, opting for tea outings instead. These moments were filled with stories and laughter, showcasing Morley’s rich experiences and the wisdom he gleaned from them. He lived life to the fullest, enough for both of us, and shared generously of himself.
I will miss Morley’s presence, his stories, and the genuine connections we formed over the years, reminding me to cherish the moments and the people who make them meaningful.
I offer my condolences and those of my family to all Morley’s family on his passing. Morley has been a presence in our lives for a lifetime. He hired me as Secretary to the Religious Studies Department at MUN in 1973; I was 18 and fresh out of college. I can’t begin to describe the impact he had on me and my family. He was an awesome person to work for, always kind, considerate, and professional. He became a family friend, sharing in all our joys and sorrows, even assisting in the funeral service for my daughter Alison in 2013. He was so good to my three children, encouraging them regarding their education and lives and helping them financially, always kind and generous. He was loved and will be missed. We will speak his name.
I first met Morley at Gower St. Church five years ago and again at Tiffany. He sat at the table next to ours and we enjoyed his cheerful smile and great sense of humour. We chuckled when he had taken to wearing summer shorts even during the winter and was simply comfortable in his own skin. He also often walked for exercise with his nephew in the hallway .strengthening his legs. Mary at our table often rushed to pass him his walker when he got up from the table and he cheerfully referred to her as faithful Mary.. I knew Morley briefly but it was a great privilege to have shared a very small part of his incredible life.
While I think I always knew Dr Hodder….though he always insisted on being called Morley, in recent years we crossed paths at Hallmark. Staff fought for the privilege of choosing cards with him as they always came away from the conservation feeling uplifted. No one chose more carefully, reading every card and making sure it was the best card for this person at this exact moment in their lives. I tell this story because Morley took this care with everything he did, from studying and teaching, offering gentle and kind advice, to bringing groceries to friends who could not go out. The telephone was his friend as he kept in touch with so many. His faith was strong and shared but never pressed. He truly lived as God’s messenger in every aspect of his life. Valerie and family he will be missed by many, but mostly by you. I’m sure many who have gone before welcomed him happily into heaven.
It was with great sadness the news of Marley’s passing so suddenly as Leona and I visited him at St. Claire’s Hospital about two weeks ago. He was so pleased that we did visit him and told us that we had made his day Morley and I chatted ever couple of weeks for the past twenty years or more. Our chats were great and he always wanted to know how everyone in the Cove was doing and we had many good laughs as well. Many times he told me that those visits were some of his fondest memories. His last visit was when he came out with his nephew Randy. At that time Rev. Gerald Giles (our minister) asked him to preach on Sunday at Holy Trinity which he gladly accepted. During that visit he wanted to visit several communities in the area including Fogo. His first visits in Victoria Cove he stayed with my parents(Rybert and Phyllis Gillingham) after their passing he stayed with Leona and I, those visits were very enjoyable
Sincere condolences to his brother Eric and family
Rev. Morley Hodder was a true gentleman He will surely be missed.
RIP Morley
Philip & Leona
We are saddened to learn of Uncle Morley’s passing. We have very fond memories of his yearly trips to “the Cove” and we all loved him dearly. We always enjoyed his stories and I loved how his eyes twinkled when he laughed. He had a wonderful sense of humor. On behalf of my family, I send heartfelt condolences to Eric and all the family. Uncle Morley will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Morleys family: I first met Morley and Vera in the 70’s working at Air Canada St Johns airport. We became great friends for many years after discovering I was raised in Springdale and knew many of his former parishioners. Morley shared many of his humorours stories with me when ever we met together. One very funny story was one Sunday morning when singing the hymn at church ,Take my life and let it be, take my silver and my gold, not a mite would I withhold. He quickly stopped the singing, Wait a minute, you wouldn’t say that accoerding to last Sundays offering. There were many others. RIP my friend.
Morleys Family
A quiet, gentle gentleman with the wonderful gift of love, compassion, empathy, a little bitter of a healthy joker and a good friend. He blessed us with his presence when he attended St. Marks Church. Always there to talk and listen with a gentle voice, I will miss him dearly. Condolences to his family, you were gifted with a wonderful person. God Bless 🙏🏽
I didn’t know Mr. Hodder very well, personally, but my parents, Rev. Silas and Blanche Rodgers, knew him well and share their sadness as I share mine at the news of his passing. I do know that Mr. Hodder didn’t only help younger people with their education; as I have very fond memories of Mr. Hodder being instrumental in helping my mom attend MUN as a student when I first attended myself in 1985. Mr. Hodder was, indeed, a very kind man who will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. God bless you and comfort you in your sorrow.
I have been blessed to enjoy a rich friendship with Morley since 1980, when I first took one of his Religious Studies courses at MUN. Wherever I have lived and worked, we have kept in touch: by letter, by visits (whenever he had occasion to be in Toronto), and by frequent phone calls. He was a beautiful friend, and I will cherish the memory of him. He was fond of the hymn “O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go.” I will sing it in his honour …. forever., knowing that we are all held in that great love. Thank you, Morley.
I only knew Morley for a short time but had some interesting conversations with him in the 30 years since I completed one religious studies course under his direction. He was everything these other condolences speak of and more. A wonderful man. Rese in peace.
I offer my sincere condolences to Dr. Hodder’s family and friends. I met Dr. Hodder through my sister Mary Walsh who worked with him in the Religious Studies Department at MUN. During the several times I saw him over the years, I found him to be a kind and lovely man. May he rest in peace.
Dr. Hodder was a gifted teacher and scholar. He was kind and generous often welcoming students, along with Vera, to his home on Sunday evenings for a meal and conversation.
He built a great Department of Religious Studies. which surely is his legacy.
My condolences to Morley’s family.
Sincere condolences on Morley’s passing,
Morley was a great family friend and one of our fathers best friends as they attended McGill together and became life long friends and would see each other often ,
Happy to have many fond memories of Morley , as he also officiated all of our families weddings ,
I think that anyone who ever met Morley Hodder will remember him, as one who epitomized in his personality and deportment all of the basic Christian values!!Compasstion!, caring, ,humility and empathy were intrinsic to his life and work! And his listening skills were so gratifying to all who sought his advise,academically or personally! He was, an honorable man,,a great, person and a faithful friend! Condlolences to his family!
we couldn’t quite pin down our ancestry but we were related in some distant way, as far as we could figure. I have so many fond memories of Morley from MUN and it was his encouragement that I used as inspiration to continue in my education field and major in Religious Studies. I loved his kindness, his sense of humor and his genuine concern for all those whom he met. Fantastic gentleman, so glad I kept in touch with him since the 80’s. Thoughts and prayers to all the family and friends. God has gained a great one in Morley.
With deepest sympathy I wish to pass on condolences to Uncle Eric and family (many of who I have never met). Uncle Morley, ( not really a blood uncle) was so fondly loved be all who met him. It was through many adventures in Gander Bay, Gaff Topsails, and Cape St. George our family enjoyed many stories, laughs and memories we hold close to our hearts now and forever.
A great man has passed, will never be forgotten and for the family our thoughts and prayers go to you all!
RIP Uncle Morley, say hi to Aunt Rosie, and the others.
Darryl & Carole Gillingham
I was fortunate to have been a student of Morley’s back in the mid 70’s. We became friends and were in touch ever since. He particularly enjoyed a Friday lunch at the Crow’’a Nest. He was a magnificent professor and scholar and very much epitomized the true meaning of “Gentleman”. May the God whom he loved so dearly grant him eternal rest.
Kevin Breen
I have known Morley for many years as a colleague and friend. I was also privileged to do a course from him at Mun in later life as continuing education. A great man, minister and friend. May he rest in peace.
Rev. Eric Hillier
Valerie, My deep and sincere condolences to you and to your dear Uncle Morley’s family and friends.
I first met Dr. Hodder in 1969 at MUN while doing my first Religious Studies. I thought of him and a kind, friendly and wise man. then and that thought never changed even in later years when we crossed paths. May he rest in peace!
Paul Thomey
Torbay, NL
We are both so saddened to hear of Morley’s passing. We both have so many fond memories of him. We always enjoyed his visits to Gander Bay. He spent quite a bit of time visiting and staying for nights at my parents (Rybert & Phyllis Gillingham) house and they enjoyed every minute he was there. He would also visit my in-laws (Scott & Shirley Vivian) and they also enjoyed his visits and shared a good many laughs. We will keep those great memories close to our hearts. RIP Morley
Morley has been my teacher, my spiritual guide, mentor and friend for 40 years. His insight, care, compassion and challenges have empowered me to be the best that I can be. I shall cherish the many conversations about life and love and God . I shall hear his voice always and feel his hugs. To his family, who he spoke of with deep love, I hold you in prayers. You have been his strength and his joy.