Operation: Get Joshua Home!
Raising money to take care of the family in their time of need.Operation Get Joshua Home!
This is the official blog site of the late Marvin “Joshua” Hodges III, who traveled abroad to Jamaica just months after graduating from Andrews University (Michigan) with his Master’s of Divinity in hand and lost his life (August 26, 2009) in its prime, at the tender age of 25.
He had a big heart, a beautiful spirit, was both well liked and most importantly… well loved.
On August 28, 2009 at around 9:30am PST, his parents, Marvin and Joy Hodges received the shocking news… Joshua’s body was recovered on a Jamaican beach after having been washed ashore miles away from the nearest “swimming” beach, mere hours after he hadn’t shown up for his flight back to the U.S. With incomplete and conflicting information trickling in from the U.S. Embassy (Jamaica) and the Jamaican authorities, one solid piece of advice was given to Marvin and Joy Hodges… “Come and get Joshua’s body and take it back to the United States A.S.A.P.!” The United States Embassy made it clear that time is of the essence; so the Hodges’ need to raise money QUICKLY and NEED YOUR FINANCIAL HELP!
As we get more information and we learn more of what the family’s needs are we’ll share it with you here, updating you on how you can help. We’ll also keep you posted on the developments of the case as we try to bring the much needed clarity and closure to the circumstances surrounding Joshua’s untimely death, his grieving family and friends.
52 Comments»
Cara wrote @
It would help to post pics of him and update on how the fundraising is going. I will post this on my facebook page. God Bless.
ogjh.admin wrote @
Cara thank you so much for your input and concern. As we continue to receive relevent, pertinent information that can bring clarity and closure to this situation we will be sure to keep the updates coming.
As you know this is a very delicate time for the family and we’re facing an enormous amount of calls, questions and the like, so for now, just know that we’re doing the very best given the circumstances.
Thanks again for your care and the best thing that you can do to help out, is to keep the family lifted in your prayers, your prayer circles, and continue to spread the news and garner as much support as that is what we need right now.
God Bless and keep you and know that if we take a moment to respond, it’s not intentional, it’s just that we’ve got a lot of things to accomplish in a very short period of time.
We will be adding to the blogsite an ‘Update Page’ to keep you all informed of the latest along with other pages and links; so check back often and click on the “Notify me of follow-up comments via email.” box.
Brent Batiste wrote @
We as adventists pay thousands of dollars in tithes, this is somthing that the conference needs to take care of. They can certainly afford It.–Brent Batiste
Virginia Hart wrote @
I’m am very saddened to hear about the loss of Joshua Hodges III. I am sending my deepest and sincere condolences to his family and friends.
I hope that all funds raised is enough to get his parents to Jamaica to bring him home safely. His family will be in my prayers tonight!
Chadean wrote @
He was a very sweet person with a big heart! I’ll never forget how much he helped me with keeping in shape and the importance of health. He was also awesome at the drums…i will do the best I can to help with this donation.
Christina Fisher wrote @
I will be supporting as much as I can with the little that I have. I know it’s not a lot but anything I can do to help bring my friend home…I encourage everyone…even if it’s just a dollar to help..e.very little bit counts. Josh had the kindest heart there is…an innocence on life and just the deepest desire just to help spread the good news…we can all learn much from our “unicycle” friend. Whether it was playing on his Jimbay @ Fusion or New Life or @ DMC practice…or weight lifting…or talking with somone who was down…or even studying…Josh was passionate about it…That’s what I learned…to believe in something and be passionate about it…that’s what he was doing in Jamaica and I pray his legacy will live on…Stay encouraged Hodges Family!
Pastor C. Ray wrote @
I never had the opportunity to meet him in person, but we will meet in heaven! Our prayers go out to the family. Rest assured that the word is being spread about this young man’s legacy and we will do what we can to help the family get through this difficult time.
Daniel Acevedo wrote @
To the family and friends of Joshua and all who read this. Joshua was a loving person. He had an unmistakable presence and he will be deeply and dearly missed. My family grieves the loss of Joshua….. Deliverance Mass Choir grieves the loss of Joshua….. We know this is a difficult time and hope we can reach out as much as possible. I am giving ALL that I can give and hope whoever reads this can do the same.
Joshua thank you for your inspiration, thank you for your kind smile and presence. You will forever be missed by your family at DMC. We know that you are sleeping now, but we are comforted by the fact that when you rise again you will see GOD, and live with Him forever.
” “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
-Matthew 5:3-10-
Charmain Anderson wrote @
I met Joshua one weekend while visiting my daughter, Kendra, at Andrews. I had the distinct privilege of sittin and observing him as he played the drums at rehearsal on Friday night, at church on Sabbath morning and at a concert on Saturday night. I had nothing but admiration for him as he passionately played. I am happy that I took the time to tell him this. I have subsequently, repeatedly asked my daughter about him, and was shocked when she texted me last Sabbath during church to tell me of his unfortunate, untimely death. My prayers go to the family for God to grant them strength and comfort during this time. I have also asked my daughter to place an offering on our behalf at New Life today.
Howard L Brown wrote @
May the comfort that only God can give be with the Hodges family during this difficult. We look forward to that great day when the pain on this earth will end. Our family will continue to keep you lifted up before the Lord.
Linda Chowa wrote @
I will pray and do whatever I can to help to bring Joshua home. Blessings and all the comfort I hope and pray for you and the family.
THY BROTHERS KEEPER wrote @
For those who dont know me i was his keeper for 25 years i knew him the best funny wow from day one coming out my mothers womb i smiled because i had a chance to create a mini me lol he was the michael jackson of our family only he was the king of praise not the king of pop even though he did not get talked about as much as mj his crown will have more jewels then his he will be recieve by GOD saying well done my good and faithful servant God said i will make you the thriller of the heavens i will give you the planet moon so you can moonwalk i will tell mj to beat so you can take your rightful place in my kingdom you have serve me everyday of your life andi will reward you for that the clouds open up the lighting flashed and the thunder roared and GOD came of his thrown hiself to come down and received my baby brother unto the heavens GOD said welcome to the new M.J the m is for MARVIN and the j is for JOSHUA and hey billy jean this is my son so do as my brother did and give GOD the praise not some silly man with one glove who cant save you my brother is my hero and i just wished that i had asked him for his autograph signed brothers keeper amen
Wil Adderley wrote @
Josh was such an Awesome Guy…..he will be greatly missed and I know that I will see him again….God knows the end from the beginning and I believe that He will call Josh’s name when He comes again……Rest In Peace my friend….Til we meet again!
Bryan wrote @
Joshua will be missed by all who knew him, but we will see him again, soon enough, if we are faithful as he was. We have not lost him, but only postponed our next meeting. He is not dead, but asleep, and he will wake again to the voice of Jesus and the trump of God.
Marvin, Joy, and the family are in my prayers. May God lend you his strength to wait until we all may see your good son again, never to be parted.
Bryan
Eric Washburn wrote @
Just wanted to say, I am saddened by the news. I was in the Seminary with Josh. He always had a great smile, positive attitude. I took Greek, Hebrew, Gospel to Islam, preaching to youth. And many more classes since we started the same time. In preaching to youth, the whole classed agreed that Josh spoke straight from the heart, he was real. I just have a hard time believing the news. I will be lifting the family up in prayer. I am so sorry for your loss. Only Jesus can bring peace to such news. Eric
Rebecca wrote @
Joshua was my bestfriend for 7 challenging, but great years. Our story together has been a long one and I can only hope that God smiled on our relationship and friendship I don’t know what I’m gonna do without him but trust in Jesus, that one day soon, I will be reunited with him again in the clouds…that’s the only thing that gives me hope. It’s amazing how the second coming becomes even more real especially when someone so close to you passes away. He was my peace and I was his….but God is my ultimate PEACE i have found, especially during this time. Please continue to pray for the Hodges and all his friends who loved him to their core. Thank u.
Garfield and Denise wrote @
Josh will certainly be missed by all of us who love him and cared deeply for him. My story of knowing Josh did not start at oakwood, even though we were there together. It was at the Seminary that we grew closer togetheras we prepared for Greek and Hebrew exams. I remember his voiced anxiety with a simple smile concluding that the LORD will see us through. From the times of our initial encounters Josh and I spoke confidentially about a lot of issues. I cherished the confidence he has in me and looked forward with anticipation to every event to talk about issues. I can still hear his- right, right, right… echoing as I responded to his questions.
I am happy we will see each other again, but at that time he and i will be asking Jesus some questions. Questions such as why Josh died just after he was allowed to prepare to preach the Gospel. I just can’t wait to ask Jesus why, after the answer Josh and I will take a walk to the Tree of Life and talk for a while- without interruptions such as death!
Chaplain and Mrs.Garfield Browne
Orlando, Fl.
Zack wrote @
I had the honor of working with Josh at PSR summer camp a few years back. We were instantly friends. He was so fun to be around and we both loved testing our skills on the basketball court. I’ll never forget him and can’t wait to see him in Heaven.
Triesha-Gaye wrote @
My heart goes out to Joshua’s family at this time. I have never met him but I’m moved by this incident. I pray that God will comfort you and that your quest for answers and closure are swiftly realized.
Triesha-Gaye, Jamaica
Lessie wrote @
I met Josh when we were teenagers at a mutual friend’s house. He was very shy so he had a friend hand me a note written on ripped paper plate saying that I was a beautiful christian girl and he wanted to get to know me better. Pretty good move for a 16 year old…impressed me a lot. I lived in San Diego and he was in Riverside so we stayed in touch through email and phone cards. We eventually dated for about a year and remained friends thereafter. There were many times when we were a support for each other over the years. The thing that I admired about him was his ability to overcome the many hard circumstances in his life and it was only by the grace of God. Also his ability to make you feel like your the most special person around. He has and always will have a special place in my heart. I’m glad that I got to be a part of his life and will never forget the special moments we shared. I don’t know why he was taken from us so soon but I am assured that God is still in control. I am holding on to His promises that all that we’ve lost will be restored. That one day I will see Josh again. I pray for the Hodges (who are my second family) and other family, for Rebecca who has for many years been beyond a true friend to Josh and a great friend to me. Also for anyone else who is suffering from his loss. May God heal and strengthen your hearts in this difficult time.
Julian Benjamin II wrote @
Marv and Joy,
although a this time I am unable to give financually, my offering comes in the made of intercessory prayer. pehaps the best i could do at this point in time? God bless you and i hurt as you hurt. Jesus is coming soon!! if you need me, you have my number-
peace
Bethany Conrad wrote @
Hi. I am a student at Andrews who is currently over seas as a missionary…. I had the privilege of knowing Joshua…
He was always full of joy and lending a hand. If theres one thing i remember it was his warm smile and his joyful attitude. And most of all him learning to ride the unicycle. :). It breaks my heart to hear of this happening to a man of God. I know that he will be in Heaven and i will continue to pray for his family…I will try to raise some money…as much as i can….I know this isn’t easy for i’ve lost my brother in a tragic accident…but hopefully we can come together as a christian family and help his family in anyway possible…
God Bless you…
Arica Hall wrote @
In all things, Praise God!! It hurt me so badly to hear the news of Joshua’s passing. But I know that he made a difference. No matter how his life ended, he made a difference for God. I pray that the Hodges Family and the numerous extended family and friends find comfort and peace during this extremely difficult time. God bless us all.
Spencer & Sondra Brewer wrote @
ug. 21,09 that I had asked Arnolda about Joshua and then a few days later she sent me an email about his death. I am at a loss for words. But I know that as we have all prayed for God’s will to be done he will comfort you during this storm and as we look forward to his soon coming we will all see those who have went ahead of us again. God had a better plan for Joshua then we with human eyes can see. W e love you both and will keep you in our prayers that you will be comforted at this time.
In Christ Jesus, be Blessed
Renee Verrett-Dooley wrote @
Oh, my goodness, Marv and Joy…Wayne and I are heartbroken! I didn’t know of your TRAGIC loss until a minute ago. We will do what we can to help, and of course, we will lift you and the other children before the Lord consistently. I can see that precious baby boy, and the man Joshua became, and I am sad. PRAISE GOD for our Blessed Hope in Christ Jesus!!! We love you….
Ehriqa Smith, I.E. wrote @
I am very saddened to hear of Joshs’ (untimely) homegoing. Marvin, Joy and family, please know that my prayers are for God to continue to keep His hedge of angels around you and comfort you through this time. WE SHALL EMBRACE JOSH AGAIN IN GLORY! God bless you.
Diana McKnight wrote @
I was saddened to hear about your son and your loss of such a precious life. May God be with your family during these difficult time.
Gerard and Diane wrote @
Joy and Marvin
We are so sorry to hear about the tragic loss of Joshua. I have been trying to get ahold of you. Eustace gave me this website yesterday. You and your family have been on our minds and in our prayers every day.
We will try to put together some help for you. I will be in touch.
Gerard and Diane
Patricia Mitchell wrote @
Dear Brother Marvin & Sister Joy,
I would like to express my sympathy to your family. Let you know that we are praying for all of you. May the LORD Bless you at this hard time. We are praying that all prayer request will get answered.
Love you,
Patricia Mitchell
Pastor Salvador Garcia wrote @
I was saddened by the news yesterday (at a Pre-Ordained Pastor’s Meeting in Eagle Rock, CA) to hear of the untimely death of one of God’s Heroes and Servants. I met Josh at Andrews University during my seminary training, and I remember him as being a very joyful, energetic person, and loving person. I am deeply saddened to know the circumstances of his death. I hope and pray that the presence of God and the hope of the resurrection will comfort Josh’s parents, family, and close friends during this time of grief and pain.
ERIN RAMSEY wrote @
WORDS ARE UNDECRIBABLE TO EXPRESS TO YOU && YOUR FAMILY HOW SORRY I AM FOR YOUR LOSS. I ATTENDED HIGHSCHOOL WITH JOSH AT LA SIERRA ACADEMY && ONCE YOU MET SOMEONE LIKE HIM THERE WAS NO WAY YOU COULDN’T HEAR HIS NAME WITHOUT SMILING! HE HAD AN AMAZING ABILITY TO ALWAYS BE HAPPY. SEVERAL YEARS AFTER HIGHSCHOOL I MET SOMEONE WHO WORKED WITH HIM && AS WE BOTH REALIZED IT WAS THE SAME JOSH, WE LAUGHED && SAID “OH JOSH”. THAT WAS WHO HE WAS && ALWAYS WILL BE [ A SMILE IN ALL OF OUR HEARTS] ALTHOUGH HE LEFT US WAY TO SOON, I AM TRULY THANKFUL TO YOUR FAMILY FOR SHARING HIM WITH US! I WILL CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR YOU, YOUR FAMILY, && ALL OF US WHO WILL FOREVER BE CHANGED WITH THIS LOSS OF ONE OF GOD’S ANGELS!
REST IN PARADISE JOSH! MAY WE ALL BE REJOINED ON THAT GREAT DAY WHERE ALL WHO MOURN YOU NO LONGER WILL. WHERE WE WILL ALL BE REUNITED WITH THAT GREAT SMILE OF YOURS && HEART OF GOLD. && WHERE THE SOUND OF YOUR NAME WILL BRING THE LAST SMILE TO OUR FACE BECAUSE WE WILL FOREVER HAVE YOU IN OUR PRESENCE!!
Hrefna Thordarson wrote @
I am at a loss of words to hear about Joshua’s death.. He was a good friend of mine at Andrews University, and he always had a big smile and kind heart for everyone around. It breaks my heart to know of his unexpected passing, but it is also very comforting to know that we have the hope of Christ’s second coming! As hard as a time like this is, we should never take our eyes off Jesus, but remember that He loves us all and that He will never leave us stranded; especially in hardships like these. Joshua’s family is in my continual prayers and he will forever be remembered as a loving, fun filled, kind friend. May God bless!
Duane wrote @
This is really unfortunate, my condolensces to the family. I knew Josh during the years that he attended Oakwood University. We were suitemaits, he was an awesome guy. I’m sure that his soul was surrendered to Christ, although it is sad for us, it is a celebration for him, the next face he’ll see is Jesus! Praise God! Hallelujah! I’m not in any financial position right now unfortunately, but I will def spread the word about the fundraising situation.
God’s Love to you all,
Duane Hall
leonard Mullins wrote @
My Heart reaches out to you at your loss. I dont know you or he, but we are one…Will do as can to assist
Christ’s presence keep you steady in peace
leonard Mullins
Arica Hall wrote @
Marvin and Joy, I was sent the following information from a dear friend of ours. I hope this will be the solution to getting Joshua home.
“I was telling a former serviceman and naturalized citizen about this situation. He told me and got it verified by a friend that (I believe it’s) the State Department brings any U.S. citizen home FREE when killed on foreign soil (and this is NOT just for servicemen). The original birth certificate must be shown to verify. This is not advertised and has to be pushed, but its REAL. A lady whose son was killed in Panama was able to have his body shipped to New York, FREE. Maybe they could check with the U.S. Embassy and/or State Department about that.
I’m not trying to creat extra work during a time of grief, but since money is an issue, its worth a try.
K.Miller wrote @
I am really sorry to hear about your loss. I hope that the U.S Embassy can do all they can to investigate his death. I hope your family can get a laywer as well to help investigate this sad event. I’m praying for your family.
Please spread the message to as many outlets as you can. And don’t give up all tho ur down and out. God is still on ur side!
Cliff &Freddie Harris wrote @
Marvin & Joy, Our hearts were saddened at the news of Joshua’s tragic death. We still remember his participation with us at the presentation we gave at his school, Southwestern Adventist University. We had meaningful talks about his future and how he wanted to help young people especially. We sent a donation and we will be praying for the family. Keep the blessed hope of seeing him in the first resurrection. Maranatha! We love you, Cliff & Freddie
Gail Fisher-Budner wrote @
Hi Marvin and Joy and little joy:
I just found out yesterday about Joshua and my heart is breaking for you and your family. As you know, I got to know Josh from LSU church. My daughter Mindy and him were the best of friends for a very long time. I actually still have pictures i carry with me in my wallet of a xmas banquet they went to together in 1999. She spent numerous times over at your house hanging out with josh and their friends. They talked on the phone for hours about everything. I know he was a super friend to her and encouraged her so much. I will of course always remember his smiling face – always – and words of encouragement he always had for everyone. He was certainly one of a kind. I can’t quite wrap my mind around the fact that he is no longer with us. He still had so much to offer this world. how could his time here be up? Someday Jesus will answer that question for us when we all get to heaven. I wish I was going to be in town this weekend for his service. I will watch the site for updates on his return and of course will keep your family in my prayers and help financially as i am able. Would love to see you sometime to wrap you in ahug and share understanding tears with you. Know we love you and words can really not express my sorrow. Love gail and scott budner
Mindy Fisher-Herbst wrote @
I just found out about Josh and I am so deeply sad to hear about this and I can’t believe that he is no longer with us. I met Josh when we were probably 13 years old at the La Sierra University Church. We hung out at pathfinder events, we worked together at Pine Springs Ranch during High School, and he was my date to one of my christmas banquets. I spent many wonderful times at his house with his family, and I tried to look out for Joy when she started school at Loma Linda Acadmey my Senior year. I considered Josh one of my best friends and I am upset that I didn’t do a better job of keeping in touch with him once we went our seperate ways for college. I have so many great memories of Josh and they will be with me forever. Josh was always there to listen and to help you stay on the right path. He was a very devoted Christian and I know that when he spoke people listened and believed. Your family is in my prayers and I wish I could be there for the memorial service to give you my love, but please know that you are in my thoughts and heart. I know we will all be reunited one day in Heaven.
Al Stewart wrote @
My deep sympathy to the family on your great lost… While I never knew him or his parents. As a parent I can surely sympathize with their sorrow. May God continue to uplift and comfort you in your lost.
Moliki wrote @
My heart goes out to Mr. and Mrs. Hodges, and Joy.
I’ve known Josh since we were kids in Pathfinders and in high school (La Sierra Academy). We drew close together as we spent years in Pathfinder outings and events. I received this news with shock and sadness. But when I heard of his cause to going to Jamaica to reach out to the Rastas and spread the Gospel, it became a bitter-sweet moment. You see, the last part of the Pathfinder Law says, “Go on God’s Errands.” Josh was doing the Lord’s work and paved the way for many Christians to reach the Rasta community. He gauranteed his spot in Heaven and I look forward to meeting with him on that day.
Sheri Henson wrote @
Marvin and Joy,
We are keeping you in our prayers. We have so many wonderful memories of Josh from the pathfinder years, he will be in our hearts forever. We love you guys. The Hensons
Pamela Johannes Simanjuntak wrote @
May the peace from our Lord comfort your family. It is an honor to make a donation to bring Josh Home!
Gwen Edwards Golson wrote @
Dear Joshua,
It is with a sad heart that I write this message. It has been a long time coming, because I could not come to grips with the reality, that I would never see you again here on this earth. I have known you from the time that you were so precious in your mother’s womb. I have watched you grow, play, and develop from an infant into a wonderful young man. I remember the many holidays and other family occasions that we spent together, and the times when you stayed with me when your parents were out of town. I never will forget how you, and Joy Elizabeth, went shopping with me , for baby stuff ; when I was expecting the arrival of my baby, Kayleigh. Oh Joshua, I say this with tears in my eyes, I miss you so much, and I am so sorry to see you go. Because our families are so close, I feel that you are partly mine. After all it takes a village…. But although you are gone from this earth, you are still in my heart. So my only consolation is that I will see you again in the earth made new. You will be new. Your body is without a blemish. Oh, I can just see that fresh, smiling face. I will run to you and with a hug and a kiss and say, “I am so glad to see you!” We made it in. (That is my goal). We made it home to a new life, we are brand new. At that time my sorrow and tears will be washed away. So bye for now, I am looking forward to seeing you tomorrow.
Love,
Auntie Gwen
Innocent Easter Kyampa wrote @
Its really a shock at my heart to hear this kind of tragedy.Iam from Uganda – Africa,
Its unfortunate that I have just heard of this today 3rd May 2010, Oh my God. What a great awesome Joshua we as the Adventist church in Mbarara uganda shall miss.
I met Joshua here in Uganda with mama Joy and we stayed together for a week but it was my memorable spiritual week I had. So jolly,so emphased on the word of God, so entertaining,oh my God, we pray that his soul rests enternally and hope get to meet him one time.
As for me, I will keep in prayer intetions for the family of Marvin and Mama Joy, may the good lord keep them strong in time of tears and may he wipe their tears with an ointment cloth.
I will live to miss Joshua.
Mugume milton wrote @
Joshua ha promised to comeback to Uganda this year 2010 but the Lord has not wished be, I know he has aplan for that decision. We sha ll miss you Joshua-the Advent Youth of Uganda. Bye bye Joshua……….
Joshua Emma wrote @
May the Lord bless the works of thy people especially when he calls them His Own…..I understand what the family is going through but i Join you in prayers……..
May the Lord God accept Joshua eternally as we hope to join him in our Father’s House..
I pray to God to encourage, comfort and deliver all touched by Joshua’s shocking news to believe that YOU have and ideal plan Eccl: 3.1-ff.
God Bless you all….We shall keep Missing you Joshua
Operation: Get Joshua Home! 
“We have this burning hope, burning in our hearts; Hope in the coming of the Lord”. I will always remember that Joshua never made eye contact without smiling. He carried a big grin, and a bigger heart. He was even tempered and had a stillness in his voice, and presence that very few of us own so naturally.He will be greatly missed!
May God bless and provide beyond your expectations the peace that surpasses the need to understand. And the finances to make your heart desire a reality in bringing your son home where he belongs.