JAMES DODD

JAMES DODD James H. "Jim" Dodd, age 81 of Elwood, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 27, 2025 at Ascension - St. Vincent Mercy Hospital in Elwood after an extended illness. He was born December 10, 1943 in Redwood City, California, the son of Frank L. and Charlotte V. (Edwards) Dodd. Jim was the longtime manager of Jim Dandy Restaurants in Elwood and Tipton for over 20 years and retired from food service management in 2003. He also worked as night manager for the Elwood Elks Lodge #368 and the circulation department at the Elwood Call-Leader until 2021. He was a graduate of South San Francisco High School in California and attended Fresno City College for 2 years. He married the love of his life, Loretta K. Jarvis, on June 28, 1986 and they shared over 32 years of marriage together until her passing in 2018. Jim served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1960-1964. He and Loretta were members of the Elwood Chamber of Commerce. Jim was also a member of the Elwood Elks Lodge #368, Kiwanis International, and a board member of the Workforce Investment Board of Madison-Grant County. Jim was honored to receive numerous awards from Jim Dandy Restaurants for his expertise and devotion to the their business. He especially enjoyed working at the Elks Lodge, interacting members and friends on a daily basis. Jim always cheered on the Indianapolis Colts, the Chicago Cubs, and the L.A. Raiders. He also loved cooking and baking and was known for his making delicious cheesecakes. His life and legacy will never be forgotten. Jim's family finds comfort knowing he is reunited with his beloved wife, Loretta, in Heaven. Jim surviving family includes 3 daughters, Ingrid Hudson, Jaime Nelson, and Andrea Dodd; 3 step-children, Greg (Sharon) Werline of Anderson, David Werline (Christy McCool) of Elwood, and Kathy (Randy) King of Kokomo; 7 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by both his parents and his wife, Loretta Dodd. Jim's wishes were to be cremated. A graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 14, 2025 at K of P - IOOF Cemetery in Frankton with Pastor Bob Preusz of the Community Church of Frankton officiating. Burial of his ashes will follow the service. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood. Memorial contributions may be made to Heart of Hoosierland Humane Society in Elwood. Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.