Anthony William "Billy" Hodge, 68, of Fall River, formerly of New Bedford, died Monday March 8, 2004 at home after a brief illness. He was the husband of Joyce (Harrison) Hodge.

Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Richard W. and Mary A. (Costa) Hodge, he lived in New Bedford for most of his life before moving to Fall River 3 years ago.

Mr. Hodge was formerly employed by the City of New Bedford Department of Public Works.

He was a graduate of New Bedford High School and Campbell's Business School. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves. He enjoyed country and western music and dancing.

Survivors include his wife; two sisters, Dorothy "Dolly" Conroy of Little Compton, Rhode Island and Margaret Mello of Dartmouth; a brother, Robert Hodge of Dominican Republic; and several nieces and nephews.

His Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday morning, March 11th at St. Mary's Church, South Dartmouth. Burial followed in Rural Cemetery.