Yvonne Hodges was born on May 2, 1959, to Willie and Betty Hodges in Newark, NJ. She was the third of four daughters. She grew up in Newark, but spent most of her life in East Orange in the family home. Most of Yvonne's career was in the pharmaceutical industry for many years. However, she joined the State of New Jersey in 2017, where she diligently provided exceptional service to New Jersey residents and professionals.


Yvonne was a doting sister and aunt. Inheriting her mother's generous spirit, she always extended a helping hand to those in need and offered words of encouragement. Her love for Jesus Christ shined and she was not afraid to talk and bond with others over the Lord. She was one of the go-to people for fashion, decorating, brainstorming, and laughter. Her witty jokes and quips always erupted fits of giggles from those around to hear. She loved and was very close with all of her family, often sharing many memories of growing up with her sisters and summer vacations with her cousins on her grandparents' land in North Carolina. She also loved spending precious moments with her church family.


Yvonne was an avid traveler. She was always ready to pack her bags and add to her list of numerous states and countries visited. Her extended list of trips included: Hawaii, Mexico, Canada, the Bahamas, Hong Kong, England, France, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Bermuda, Morocco, Turkey, Spain, Portugal, South Africa, Israel, and Jordan. Her last and greatest of all destinations was the bosom of Christ.


Yvonne was predeceased by her father and mother, Willie and Betty, and leaves behind in love her sisters, Eva, Renee, and Patsy (Donte); her nephew and niece, Jaquil and Jada; her goddaughter, Tayler; her uncle and aunt, Jonah (Selma) and Melverna (Tommy); many adoring cousins; her devoted boyfriend, Leon; her church family; and countless friends made throughout her wonderful life.


In lieu of flowers, donations to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital would be greatly appreciated.