Kevin Anthony Hodge

Kevin Anthony Hodge, 23, passed away on Saturday, February 9, 2019, at his home in Brooklyn, NY, after a prolonged illness. He was born in Kankakee, IL, on June 29, 1995, but lived with his mother and sister in Champaign, IL, for most of his childhood.

He graduated from The High School of St. Thomas More in 2013 and attended Illinois State University for his freshman year of college. He then transferred to New York University and received his Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance with a Specialization in Music Theatre from NYU Steinhardt in May 2017.

Kevin was living in the city of his dreams and pursuing his lifelong passions of music and theatre with a joyful optimism. He experienced life deeply, with compassion and empathy, but he also had an easy laugh and a wry, clever sense of humor. Kevin was a loving and loyal friend who lifted people up and helped see them through whatever challenges they faced. Always genuine and kind, he was a fierce advocate for those in need.

He spent several years working as a summer camp counselor with Champaign-Urbana theatre programs and performing in school and local productions. He leaves an indelible mark on his theatre family, and his love for the arts lives on in the many people with whom he worked and performed.

His family, friends and beloved pets were paramount in his life, and anyone who knew him also knew the truly special place he kept in his heart for his mother and sister. Audiences, parents, directors and teachers all loved him and recognized his unique spirit. Unassuming in his leadership, he was a pillar of reliability and strength in any circle of which he was a part.

In one of Kevins favorite musicals, Passion, Stephen Sondheim lends words at a time when most seem to fall short: "Im someone to be loved / And that I learned from you / Your love will live in me."

Kevin is survived by his parents Ann OBrien of Champaign, IL, and Frank (Kacey) Hodge of Cartersville, GA; sister Rachel Hodge of Champaign, IL; grandparents Kathy (Lyndell) Powell of Thomasboro, IL, Carol OBrien of Belleville, IL, and John Hodge of Yuba City, CA; godmother/aunt Angel Coursey of Clarksville, TN; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and pets Baby, Elphaba, Autumn, and Scout. He was preceded in death by grandfather Ed OBrien, grandmother Carol Zunino, and uncle Mike OBrien.

A celebration of life service will be held in Kevins honor at 3 p.m. on Saturday, February 23, 2019, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 710 N. Neil St., Champaign, IL 61820. Visitation will be held prior from noon-3 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Kevins family. Please join them in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Services Visitation Saturday February 23, 2019 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center Champaign-Urbana Chapel 710 N. Neil Street Champaign, , IL 61820 Celebration of Life Saturday February 23, 2019 3:00 PM to 12:00 PM Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center Champaign-Urbana Chapel 710 N. Neil Street Champaign, , IL 61820