Frances Elizabeth Dodd

Frances was born on October 24, 1923, in Helix, Oregon, to the late William Ralph and Addie Richey Smith. When she was 4 years old, the family returned to Chattanooga which would be her home for the remainder of her life. She was a proud graduate of Central High School and remained close to her classmates throughout the years.

Frances was a devoted wife, mother, employee, and volunteer. She was married to James Rhea Dodd for 70 years and together they raised two children. During their school years, she worked for the Chattanooga City Schools as a substitute teacher and afterward as a bookkeeper and deputy clerk for more than 25 years at the Hamilton County Juvenile Court. Frances was an active supporter and volunteer for many causes throughout her life, serving as an officer in school PTAs, leading GAs in church, knocking on doors for the March of Dimes, donating blood, serving as an officer in East Lake neighborhood associations, and working as a poll worker during elections. She instructed her children by example to be faithful followers of Christ, caring neighbors and involved citizens. Over the years, she was active in East Chattanooga, Woodland Park, East Lake, East Ridge and Highland Park Baptist Churches.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband.

She is survived by her children, Roy R. Dodd (Judy) of Chattanooga, and Sylvia G. Eaves (Arnold) of Woodstock, Georgia; her brother-in-law, Ed Hoback (Cheryl) of Marietta, Georgia; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family is deeply grateful to Vivian Sorrell for being not only Frances’ caregiver for many years but her dear friend as well. They also are thankful for the late Doris Jean Lewis, Sylvia Evans, Wanda Harris, Martha Flammia, Glinda Compton, Delores Ferguson, Marilyn Ford, Angela Smith and Gwen Washington who at various times have lovingly cared for her during her last days. Special thanks also to the Britton Circle and the Woodland Park Baptist Church Seniors for their cards, flowers, gifts and numerous visits.

Frances enjoyed her home at Morning Pointe Chattanooga and the many friends she made there. She loved the activities and especially the resident assistants, nurses and staff who brought her great joy. The family thanks each one for making the last seven years of her life happy.

The funeral service will be held on Thursday April 21 at 1:00 pm in the chapel of the Chattanooga Funeral Home East, 404 S. Moore Road, with internment to follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday April 20, 2022 at the funeral home.

If you wish to remember Frances with a donation, please consider giving to the Chambliss Center for Children, 315 Gillespie Road, Chattanooga, TN 37411.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com for the Dodd family.

Arrangements are under the care of Chattanooga Funeral Home Crematory and Florist East Chapel, 404 South Moore Rd. East Ridge, TN 37412.