Sydney M. Hodson III

Sydney M. Hodson III, born November 16, 1941, passed peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of quiet kindness, deep roots in his hometown, and a legacy of love for family, animals, music, and the natural world.

A lifelong resident of Reading, Massachusetts, Sydney was the definition of a true townie. He spent his life connected to the community he loved, working in family businesses that many locals came to know well — first with S.M. Hodson Oil Company and later running All Electric Supply. He could often be found most mornings at a local diner, sharing conversation and keeping up with the rhythms of town life.

Sydney is survived by his children, Whitney and Benjamin; his four beloved grandchildren, Jake, Josh, Logan, and Alexandria; his brother, Laurence Hodson and his wife Jeanne Hodson; and his sister, Lana Sanborn. He was predeceased by his wife, Virginia Gent, whose memory he carried with him always.

He had a gentle spirit and a remarkable compassion for animals and nature. His home on Percey Avenue backed onto conservation land and was a small sanctuary filled with life — dogs, birds, rabbits, and even a pot-bellied pig. He loved birding and volunteered at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island, where he found peace watching the natural world he cherished so deeply. One winter, he patiently nursed a sparrow with a broken wing back to health, keeping it safe until spring, when he released it back into the wild — a small act that reflected his generous heart.

Music was another lifelong joy. Sydney loved playing the piano and harmonica, and later in life he found special happiness entertaining others. He sang and played for fellow residents in the facility where he was cared for, bringing smiles, laughter, and comfort through song. Sharing music was one of the many ways he connected with people and brightened the days of those around him.

Sydney also had a lifelong fascination with weather. He followed forecasts closely and took pride in calling local news stations to report conditions in his area, contributing in his own way to the broader community.

He was always quick to offer help, never seeking recognition, and carried a quiet warmth that made people feel at ease. His life was marked not by grand gestures, but by everyday kindness, loyalty to his town, and devotion to the people and creatures he loved.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Services will be held privately at a future date.