Charles Edward Dodd

Charles Edward Dodd was born in Greenwood, Mississippi, on November 17, 1932, to the late J.C. Dodd Sr. and Olivia Jackson Dodd. As a young boy, he enjoyed playing outdoors and visiting his family’s farms in Mississippi. At the age of 10, Charles traveled by train with his brother and sister to Detroit, Michigan, arriving at Michigan Central Station. He was the youngest of three children, preceded in death by his siblings, J.C. Dodd Jr. and Reola Dodd Smith. Charles attended Miller Middle School and later Cass Technical High School, where he studied Chemical and Biological Sciences. At Cass Tech, he was actively involved in the track team and various social clubs. After graduating, he pursued a degree in psychology at Wayne State University. However, after three years of study, he was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War. He served as a First Field Artillery Surveyor and Chemical Warfare Specialist, stationed at Fort Sheridan, Illinois, with assignments in Korea and Japan. His notable military honors included the Korean Service Ribbon, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Rifle Marksmanship award. He also played intramural football during his service. Upon returning to the United States, Charles began working as a social worker in Wayne County. He later transitioned into a successful career in sales, working as an insurance agent with Prudential Insurance before advancing into corporate sales. With a deep passion for the philosophies of Dale Carnegie, he became a national sales trainer. Throughout his career, he held leadership roles with companies such as Metro Media, TransAmerica, Kimberly-Clark, and Color Tile, earning numerous sales awards. Eventually, he pursued entrepreneurship, establishing and operating C & C Carpet and Tile until his retirement. Charles met and married the love of his life, Joyce Marcille Lawrence. Together, they celebrated 41 years of marriage. Joyce made her transition in 2001 and preceded Charles in death. Their union was blessed with four children: Pamela Denise, Sharon Kay, Dena Marie, and Charles Lawrence. A devoted family man, Charles enjoyed taking his children on vacations throughout Canada and across the United States. His dedication to his community was evident in his volunteer work with the Northwest Detroit Cougar Youth Association Inc., where he coached girls’ softball and boys’ football. He also served as Treasurer for the league and Schultz Elementary School and was an active member of his neighborhood block club. Beyond his professional and community contributions, Charles had a variety of hobbies. He was an avid gardener and a lover of games, particularly blackjack, poker, and spades. He was a frequent visitor to the casino, always enjoying the thrill of the game. A lifelong learner, he was passionate about reading, education, and collecting rare coins. Charles was a mentor and father figure to many beyond his immediate family, always offering guidance and encouragement to young people in his community. Known for his kindness, lighthearted spirit, and sense of humor, he was a gregarious and generous man who left a lasting impact on all who knew him. On Monday, February 3, 2025, Charles made his heavenly transition after a brief illness. He leaves to cherish his memory: • Daughters: Pamela Nolen (Rodney), Sharon Dodd-Kimmey, Dena Dodd Perry (Jeffery) • Son: Charles Lawrence Dodd (Roxane) • Grandchildren: Glenn Joseph Dodd, Angela Clark (Brian), Jamaal Allen Adams (Alyssa Rose), Camille Lynn Smith, Bryon Andrew Kimmey, Jonathan Stewart Perry, Nolan Myles Kimmey, Donovan Rudolph Perry, Joshua Dale Nolen, and Olivia Joyce Perry • Great-grandchildren: Isaiah Clark and Kairo Adams • Special friend: Consuelo Dent • A host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Charles' legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Charles Edward Dodd

November 17, 1932 - February 3, 2025