Obituary

Former principal of Shorecrest Prep dies

Mrs. Hodgdon

Mrs. Hodgdon's family ran the school for 48 years. Her mother, Emma K. Vinal, joined the staff in 1927 and became principal in 1937. Mrs. Hodgdon succeeded her in 1947, and her son Bruce Vinal Haskell took over in 1973. He stepped down in 1985.

During Mrs. Hodgdon's tenure the school moved to its present location at 5101 First St. NE and grew in size and reputation.

Last November the school dedicated its library to her.

Her husband Ralph Haskell Jr. died in 1976, and in 1983 she married former Shorecrest director of studies and English instructor John Hodgdon, who died in 1992.

Born in Hartford, Conn., Mrs. Hodgdon moved here with her family in 1927.

She graduated cum laude in 1934 from Florida State College for Women, where she was student body president.

From 1934 to 1938, she taught at St. Petersburg High School.

She was a founding member of the Florida Council of Independent Schools, serving as a board member and vice president. She also was a volunteer for the Family and Children's Service Centers.

She is survived by two sons, Craig Haskell and Bruce Haskell, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

The family will receive visitors at 4 p.m. Thursday at Anderson-McQueen Funeral Home, 2201 Dr. M.L. King St. N. A memorial service will be at 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shorecrest Preparatory School.

-- Information from Times files was used in this obituary.

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