Phyllis Jones, Speakin’ Out News senior staff writer
(SON photo credit: Carla Black–Kelsay)
INTRODUCTION
Tony F. Hodge is a native of Biloxi, Mississippi and a graduate of Alcorn University. He has served 22 years in the Army as an officer. He became Branch Qualified and had option to move into a functional area. He chose Research and Development and that is what brought him here to Redstone Arsenal.
CHILDHOOD
SON: When did you come into your own?
Tony: I grew up in a single parent home. At the age of 14, I took on the role as a protector. Being the only male and the oldest, I felt the need to make sure my younger sisters were protected.
SON: What was the worst rule to break in your family?
Tony: Talking back and disrespecting your elders.
CAREER
SON: Describe a typical day in your business?
Tony: We start the day by checking email and returning any missed calls. We go through work items and then block time for meeting with prospects and selling our products.
MOTHER/FATHER
SON: Are you married and how many children do you have?
Tony: Yes I am married. I’m the proud father of two adult children, a son and a daughter. My daughter is the oldest.
SON: What surprised you most about being a father?
Tony: First, the sense of love that you have for your kids changes you. Secondly, it’s amazing how different your kids can be, especially when they come from the same gene pool and same set of parents.
SON: What do you want your kids and grandkids to learn from you?
Tony: To know that it’s all about love – it’s a cure all, the importance of family and that I gave them the best I had.
SON: What is the hardest thing you have had to do as a parent?
Tony: As a parent, when there’s a situation that you were not in control of and you cannot fix it and/or make it better for children; especially if it was something they were trying to accomplish and it just didn’t work out for them.
THE FUTURE
SON: What are your feelings about growing older?
Tony: I feel like I have done my job as a parent, the greatest gift God gave me. I’ve done most of the things I have set out to do. With that being said, I feel good about growing older.
SON: Have you become the person you expected you would be?
Tony: Yes. I’m a lot better than what I use to be.
SON: What are you most proud of?
Tony: Fatherhood. Having raised two wonderful kids is my greatest accomplishment.
SON: Do you think you will ever slow down? Stop working?
Tony: I’ll slow the pace but won’t stop. I like staying busy.
SON: What are some challenges you face in business?
Tony: Finding new customers. There is a lot of competition in this business, but once we get them, our services usually keep them here.
SON: How may you be contacted?
Tony: For your auto, home, life and retirement needs, feel free to call (256.895.6286), email (tonyhodge@allstate.com) or visit my office (5650 Sanderson Street, Suite M – Huntsville, AL 35805).