Donald James Dodds

Donald James Dodds, age 95, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2023, at his home in Scituate, Massachusetts surrounded by loving family. Donald was born on March 22, 1927, to the late Raymond and Dorothy Dodds in Detroit, Michigan.

Donald attended Boston English High School before enlisting in 1945 to serve his country as a Marine in the Pacific until 1949. After serving in the Marines, Donald earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Northeastern University. Later, while working full-time for Honeywell as an engineer, he earned a law degree from Suffolk University by attending classes at night. He worked for Honeywell for over 20 years until a mid-life career change when he became the Assistant Clerk/Magistrate for the South Boston District Court where he worked until his retirement.

Donald married the love of his life, Louise, on September 14,1958, and they moved to Scituate to start a family. Their love only grew stronger in the 64 years they were together. From working on cars together, to cooking, to camping and their mutual love of books, they lived a long and beautiful life together. They supported each other’s interests with love and respect and never wanted to be apart for long. Donald refused to leave this world behind until he was assured that Louise would continue to be loved and cared for as much as he loved and cared for her.

Donald loved doing things the “right” way and relished having the correct tool, or several of them, for the job. He was an avid learner and devoured reading material from any genre and in any form. He took pleasure in simple things well-designed, understanding the complex, and always being able to do a job himself. The factory service manual was a standard accessory for any car purchase he made and the wooden playhouse he designed and built for his kids still stood for years after his children were grown. Donald was also always willing to help a friend or stranger in need.

He is survived and will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Louise (Crowley) Dodds, his brother and sister-in-law, Robert Dodds and Pauline Flynn, his sons, Jonathan and Jeremy Dodds and their partners, Christine (Edelstein) and Jill Weldum, as well as his grandchildren, Jared, Morgan, Lauren, and Emily.

Calling hours will be held at the Richardson-Gaffey Funeral Home in Scituate on March 4, 2023, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Due to inclement weather, the graveside service has been rescheduled to a funeral home service beginning at 12:00 pm. Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made in Donald’s name to the Friends of Scituate Library at https://friendsofthescituatetownlibrary.org.