Friends and family gathered to celebrate the life of Alex Hodge, Alloa Athletic legend, at his funeral last Tuesday
He passed away earlier this month. His funeral was last Tuesday, February 11, at Kirkcaldy Crematorium. Many people attended the service to honor Alex, a footballer, bowler, and golfer.
Alex was a good footballer from a young age. He played for Ballingry Rovers Juveniles before joining Blairhall Colliery in 1959. In February 1962, Archie McPherson, the manager of Alloa Athletic, signed him. Alex played as a trialist against Clyde on February 3.
Alex played 286 times for Alloa and scored 12 goals, mostly from penalties. He is 13th for most appearances since World War Two.
John Gilfillan spoke at Alex’s service, noting that Alex played as he lived: without fuss. Alex devoted himself to his wife, June, and family, who were his main priority.
Alex and June enjoyed Lochgelly Bowling Club, where he was a loyal member for years. He was a good bowler who even won some events.
He liked the club’s social life and enjoyed Saturday sing-songs. Alex was a talented singer, yet he played down his abilities.
Gilfillan also spoke about Alex’s career, mentioning his responsible mindset. He became exemplary as an engineer, working hard since age 15 in faraway countries.
He traveled across the North Sea to Scandinavia and even to the Philippines’ jungle. Anywhere, Alex was happy. Work, holidays, and bowling fulfilled him; golf was another interest. His family meant the most to him, and he loved them unconditionally, wanting to guide them well.
June was his soul partner, always by his side. They had a happy marriage, even with his years working abroad. Sons Brian and Campbell have his humor, and Alex was proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Alex’s life began in 1941 in Happy Lands, Lochgelly. His dad, Archie, was a miner, and his mom was Rita Peel. Alex was very fit and agile as a young man, able to kick a football with natural ability. He was also a good gymnast.
Alex could do somersaults, cartwheels, and handsprings. People knew him for walking on his hands, which he would do on the Town Hall stage to the crowd’s delight.
School was easy for Alex, and he could have gone far. But life’s necessities made him work to support the family. He went to Rosyth Dockyard, unlike others, and became a mechanical fitter, leading him to a successful career.