Paul Joseph Dodd

Paul Joseph Dodd of Manchester, 74, passed away on November 6, 2024. He leaves behind his beloved wife Marsha, his children Maura Dodd and Conor Dodd, daughter in-law, Lena Dodd, his grandchildren Cloverleigh and Calvin, his sister Roberta Dodd, and many cousins and their families in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida. And dear friends, too numerous to mention.
The son of Arthur and Agnes (Brassill) Dodd, Paul was born in Hartford on September 14, 1950. He grew up in the city, visiting his grandparents William F. and Agnes Daley Brassill, playing in Bushnell Park and attending Immaculate Conception School. He graduated from South Catholic High School and Fairfield University. He married Marsha Reeve on September 24. 1977 at St. Augustine Church in Hartford.
Paul spent most of his professional life in criminal justice work as a Probation Officer for the State of Connecticut. Toward the end of his career, however, he took a detour, received his teaching certification, and fulfilled a longstanding desire to teach, serving as a Social Studies instructor in the Willimantic Alternative High School System. And then for something completely different, Paul worked as a Liturgical Publications Coordinator for the Eastern Diocese of New England.
In these varied positions, Paul got to do what he loved best: meeting, empathizing and working with all types of people, from cardinals to criminals and everybody in between. With his quiet competence, strong listening skills and deep empathy, he could talk to anyone. A seeming paradox, Paul was a man of few words who could easily hold an all-night conversation, converting new acquaintances to good friends along the way.
Paul was a man of deeply held values and he lived by them every day. First and foremost was his love for his family. Known around town as the "Dodd Squad", Paul, Marsha, Maura and Conor were a fearsome foursome at Manchester Country Club, faithful runners in the Manchester Thanksgiving Road Race, and an always welcome four-top at many pubs, cafes and music clubs in the greater Hartford area. He was so proud of his children, as much for their tolerance and kindness as for their professional and athletic accomplishments. He was forever in love with Marsha and always supported her decisions as she negotiated her successful journey through the work/ life matrix. He was ridiculously besotted with his grandchildren and enjoyed every opportunity to spend time with them. But above all he was thankful.
He showed his gratitude through celebration. A terrific host and expert grill chef, he threw parties for birthdays, Christmas and other holidays, sports victories, patriotic events. And on St. Patrick's Day, he and Maura sacrificed going to work in favor of visiting the most traditional Irish pubs to celebrate and to listen.
Even as he aged into his seventies, Paul kept on top of popular culture and everything happening in music of all genres, attending many concerts and shows over the years. His home was always a welcoming multigenerational space, where family and guests would listen to each other's' old and new favorite songs and bands with great enthusiasm and judgment-free appreciation.
A selfless man, Paul was happy to serve others through acts of kindness; through empathy; through respect; through loyalty - to the Red Sox, the Patriots, UConn basketball, the late great Whalers; and through his patriotism. And his rambunctious sense of humor served others, enabling them to see the silly or ironic aspects of life's biggest challenges and smallest hassles alike. Whatever their circumstances, he made people feel happy.
For the twinkle in his eye, his loving words and his dear heart, we will miss him and honor him forever.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, November 14th, from 4-7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 15th, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bartholomew Church, 736 Middle Turnpike E, Manchester (please meet directly at church) followed by burial at East Cemetery.