John Darrell Lodge

John Darrell Lodge, affectionately known as "Papa” and “Dr. Lodge," entered the Pearly Gates on January 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 20, 1951, in Pelham, Georgia, to Leon Lafayette Lodge and Dessie Owen Lodge. He was of Christian faith and attended Friendship Baptist Church of Leesburg.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Friendship Baptist Church. Rev. Mark Spraggins will officiate.

John’s life was one marked by dedication, love, and service. He married the love of his life, Shirley Grogan Lodge, in 1971, and together they shared 53 years of unwavering devotion. In 1972, John and Shirley made their home in Leesburg, Georgia, where they raised their two beloved children, Brooke and Blake.

John’s career in law enforcement began in 1973 with the Albany Police Department. He went on to start Associated Polygraph and Investigative Services, later returning to work with the Dougherty County Sheriff's Department. John retired in 2010 as Captain of Investigations. His passion for law enforcement was evident throughout his life.

Following his retirement, John embraced his favorite pastimes—fishing, hunting, and spending quality time with his family, particularly his grandchildren. He was a man of fun and laughter, known for his unique nicknames and infectious sense of humor. He always knew how to bring joy to those around him.

John’s legacy of love, service, and laughter will live on through his wife, children, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered for his kind spirit, steadfast devotion, and zest for life.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife Shirley Grogan Lodge, son, Blake (Katie), daughter, Brooke Hall (Kyle) and grandchildren, Makenzie Hall, Kyle Hall, Payne Lodge and Caroline Lodge, brother Dewayne " Bubba" Lodge (Mary) and nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Saturday, January 11, 2025  from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral time.  

In lieu of flowers please make memorials in memory of John Darrell Lodge to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY, 10306 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tn, 38105.