Estelle Dodson Giroux

Estelle Dodson Giroux peacefully went to be with her Lord on July 10, 2009, at Southpoint Terrace Care Center, in Jacksonville, Fla. Born September 20, 1912, in New York City, to John and Kathryn Nikols Miller, she grew up with her family of four sisters and three brothers. She moved to Charleston, W.Va. where she met the love of her life, Monroe Dodson. They married and eventually settled in Bluefield when he was appointed as the Director of the Bluefield Union Mission where he served until his untimely death, in 1966. Estelle not only raised five children, but also assisted her husband in his ministry at the Union Mission by taking charge of the program for unwed mothers at that time. She continued to serve at the Mission after his death until 1972 when she moved to Florida. In 1980, she married Andrew Giroux who was her friend and companion until his death, in 1997. She is survived by her five children; daughter, Eileen Wagner (Bob), and sons, David (Terry), Ed (Mary Dean), Fred (Carole) and Paul (Teresa); 12 grandchildren; 20 greatgrandchildren; one great-greatgrandchild; and several nieces and nephews, including Joe Prazecky, from his area. Estelle was an inspiration to everyone whose life she touched. A woman of strong faith, she instilled values and grace in the lives of her family. A celebration of the life of Estelle Dodson Giroux will be held on Monday, July 20, 2009, at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church with Dr. W.D. Hasty officiating. A graveside service will precede at 10 a.m. at Roselawn Memorial Gardens where she will be laid to rest. Those wishing to attend the graveside services are asked to meet at Mercer Funeral Home by 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Bluefield Union Mission, where she and her beloved Monroe gave so much of their hearts, 2203 Bluefield Avenue, Bluefield, W.Va. 24701. Those wishing to share memories or condolence messages may visit www.mercerfuneralhome.com. Mercer Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family of Estelle Dodson Giroux.