Ellen Marie Hodnett

Ellen Marie Hodnett, 50, passed away on April 9, 2026. Born on November 10, 1975, in Bogalusa, Louisiana, Ellen was the kind of presence who left people lighter than she found them—wise in counsel, courageous in spirit, and invariably funny. She was most known for her storytelling and wry humor, and for a rare gift that defined her life: the ability to talk to anyone and make them laugh.

Ellen brought that same spark to every corner of her world. She rose to Superintendent at J2 Solutions, where her steady leadership, exacting standards, and relentless problem-solving earned respect across the board. Colleagues remember a woman who could turn a jobsite into a community—commanding when needed, encouraging always, and quick with a story that cut through tension and brought people together. Outside of work, she found joy and peace in simple wonders: casting a line at dawn, combing the shoreline for shark teeth with a childlike thrill, and cooking meals that gathered friends into family. She lived by words she shared often—“We all walk the path that we pave”—and she paved hers with grit, humor, and love.

Of all she cherished, none meant more to Ellen than her daughter, Paige Hodnett, the steady north star of her days. She also treasured her friends and extended family, and the team at J2 Solutions who became a second family through years of shared effort and loyalty. At home, her beloved cat, Babycat, was a constant companion and gentle source of comfort. Ellen’s circle was wide and welcoming; once you were inside it, you were there for good.

In remembering Ellen, may we carry forward her laughter, her candor, and her open-armed way with people. May we meet others with the ease and warmth she offered so freely, and find time for the quiet joys she loved best. Details for a celebration of life will be shared by the family at a later date. The family thanks all the loving hands and souls that guided her through this journey and remained constant and true. She is blessed and loved by multitudes. Big as the sky, wherever it goes.

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