David Scott Dodson

David Scott Dodson, age 62, of the Upper Tuskeegee community passed away on February 21, after battling pancreatic cancer.  He was born September 2, 1955 at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois.

David is survived by his wife, Bonnie, and three children and their spouses:  Dana Teahan (Patrick) Boston, MA; Devon Gurley (Brian) Peachland, NC; Douglas Dodson (Kristy) Charlotte, NC; and seven grandchildren:  Henry Teahan, Jackson, Justin, Jay and Julianna Gurley, and Olivia and Nolan Dodson.

He also is survived by a brother and four sisters:  Rob Dodson, Susan DeVore, Chris Blaber, Laura Tyler and Julie Outlaw and a host of nieces and nephews with whom he has been very close.  Additionally, his mother-in-law, Charlue Greene, of Upper Tuskeegee survives. His sister, Jane Merigliano, preceded him in death.

David’s parents, the late Burt Dodson, Jr. and Cecile Eckhard Dodson, raised their large family while moving from place to place in the military.  While the experience of living in various countries and states was fun and educational, David felt that he had finally put down permanent roots when he and Bonnie moved to Graham County in 2001.  He loved the natural beauty and through his work with GREAT and the Partners of Joyce Kilmer, he spent many volunteer hours in keeping it clean and pristine for residents and visitors to enjoy.  The community he found in Graham County surrounded him with numerous wonderful friends.

Before coming to Graham County, David served in the U.S. Navy followed by a career with Knight Ridder newspapers in Charlotte, NC.  After moving here, he taught classes at Tri-County Community College in Robbinsville. 

Having always respected the earth, David’s body was returned to the ground in a green manner February 22 at the Breedlove Cemetery in Tuskeegee.  He was honored by his good friend, Roger Vaarum and his special brother-in-law, J.E. Coffey, who together hand built his wooden casket.

Visitation and a memorial service will be held at the Townson-Smith Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, February 24, at 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to GREAT, an organization with which David has dedicated much time and effort.  Send to P.O. Box 1223, Robbinsville, NC  28771.

Townson-Smith Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Dodson family.  An online register is available at www.townson-smithfuneralhome.com.