Darlene Dodd Dodson, 72, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away on Oct. 14, 2022, surrounded by loved ones. She bravely battled cancer with strength and grace the last year of her life and is now at peace. Her ever-present smile, energetic personality, quest for adventure, and the sound of her laughter will be missed tremendously.
Born on May 4, 1950, in Dimmitt, Texas, Darlene was one of three daughters born to the late Harlin and Bobby Dodd. She graduated DHS in 1968 and was involved in farming and ranching for 18 years. This was not her dream, but that didn't stop her from becoming a skilled truck driver, astounding many with her knack for backing a trailer up to a loading chute on the first try. She then ventured into massage therapy for a decade, bringing a much-needed service to Dimmitt that was appreciated by many. After moving to the DFW area in 2001, she became an optician for Sam's Club, assisting many on their quest for vision. It was during this time she met the love of her life, Richard, in 2016. They were married in October 2019 and enjoyed their time together traveling, drinking wine, playing games, and spending time with family and friends. She will be remembered for her love of dancing in her earlier years and her innate ability to meet a new friend wherever she went.
Darlene was preceded in death by her grandparents, J.M. and Mayme Birdwell; her parents; her sister, Jerry Kay Dodd Rhodes; and her beloved grandson, Cannon Carducci.
She is survived by her husband, Richard Dodson; three daughters: Debbie Carducci of Dallas, Kim Branaman of Capitan, New Mexico, and Shawn St.Vrain of Dallas; sister, Billie Sue Dodd Ballard of Guymon, Oklahoma; many grandchildren and one great- grandchild; as well as many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held on Nov. 6, at Corner Wines, 4017 Preston Rd Unit 535, Plano, Texas from 2 to 4 p.m. and in Dimmitt on Nov. 12, at West Texas Coffee, 107 E. Bedford St from 1 to 3 p.m.
If you wish to honor Darlene's life, please consider donating to Harold C. Simmons Cancer Center or any other charity engaged in the fight against cancer or the Alzheimer's Association.