Harriet Hyman (Rotter) Dodd, born on April 21, 1935, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, in the place she loved most—Hilton Head, South Carolina. She left this world with the same grace, strength, and warmth that defined every day of her life.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 42 years, Donald P. Dodd; her sister, Myrna Wright; and her parents. Harriet, devoted mother of Michele Rotter Doran (Bob), Steven Rotter (Fran), and Lawrence Rotter (Andrea), and stepmother to Tom Dodd (Patti), Kathy Dodd Fox (Michael), Dan Dodd (Sandy), and Dave Dodd (Bobbi). Nothing brought her more joy than being “Grandma Harriet” to Bradley (Alyssa), Carly, Dylan, Austin, Landon, Linsey Rotter and Great Grandson Charlie Rotter each of whom she cherished with all her heart.
Harriet was also preceded in death by her first husband, Joseph William Rotter. The loyalty between them never faded. They shared countless memories, and Harriet never forgot the early chapters of her life.
Born in Washington, D.C., she spent most of her life in Maryland. In 1996, she and Don followed their hearts to Hilton Head—her true happy place—where they created a life filled with friendship, love, family, friends, and endless gatherings.
Harriet lived vibrantly and wholeheartedly. She was energetic, competitive, and spirited—an avid racquetball player, mahjong maven and golfer who embraced every challenge with joy. She was a familiar and comforting sight on the beach, always with her beloved dog Cody, and later Sea C. Friends affectionately called her the “Mayor” of Hilton Head, a title she earned through conversations and the countless friendships she both formed and nurtured. She and Don were spotted nightly at one of their many favorite restaurants, usually sitting at the bar, enjoying good food, wine and good company.
The Hilton Head lifestyle brought Harriet immense joy, and she treasured the memories, relationships, and simple everyday moments. Her light, laughter, and presence touched everyone who knew her.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to her in home caregivers, who supported and cared for her with such dedication from 2019 to 2024, and to the staff at The Seabrook, Fraser Center of Hilton Head, who cared for her from 2024 to 2026 with compassion, professionalism, and exceptional kindness.
A celebration of Harriet’s life will be held in Hilton Head, South Carolina.
Those who desire to make memorial contributions in memory of Harriet can be made to either of the following organizations.
Angels Among Us Pet Rescue is an organization Michele and Bob are very active with and the organization where their beloved Sea-C was adopted from. Angels Among Us Pet Rescue PO Box 821Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 https://angelsrescue.org/
Hilton Head Humane Association 10 Humane Way, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, where they adopted their beloved Cody https://hhhumane.org/
Mom, you will be forever in our hearts.
Your beloved Family