When a large number of Anguillians left Anguilla to travel to the US Virgin Islands to seek employment mainly in the then booming construction industry, Hillary Hodge, a young beloved resident of George Hill, went to St. Thomas for a different type of occupation: the field of journalism.
There, he made a name for himself through the lenses of his cameras. Over the course of a number of years he became a very admired and sought-after photojournalist. He served with the award-winning St. Thomas Daily News and the St. Croix Avis. He has also been the official photographer for various government agencies.
Though living in St. Thomas, Hillary never forgot his homeland, Anguilla. With his camera, the tool of his trade, in hand, he frequently returned home for periods of relaxation and to fraternise with family and friends. He was a friend of The Anguillian newspaper, often giving very useful advice about photography and journalism.
His passing on Monday, July 23, at the age of 74, evoked a great deal of regret and condolences across the US Virgin Islands. He is survived by two sons, Hillary Hodge Jr. and Aksel Hodge, a number of grandchildren; two brothers: Barneus Hodge and Douglas Hodge; sisters: Phyllis (Cena) Hodge in Anguilla; Bona Hodge in the United Kingdom; Grace Hodge in the United States; and Bernadette Hodge in St. Maarten; and many other relatives and friends.
Hillary was the son of Violet and Rupert Hodge. He was formerly married to Honica Hodge and Goldine James-Hodge.
The Anguillian newspaper offers its sincere condolences to all members of family and friends.
