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Hinesville, Georgia

Gary Dodd Obituary

Gary W. Dodd - HINESVILLE - Gary W. Dodd, 62, a local businessman, community leader, devoted loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and uncle passed away Saturday, July 13, 2013 after a long illness in the Specialty Hospital, Jacksonville, FL. Known as Mr. McDonald's or McDodd, he was a forty-seven year McDonald's employee and franchisee with McDonald's franchises in Hinesville, Jesup, Glennville and Claxton. Mr. Dodd credits his wonderful life to his daily relationship and faith with his savior Jesus Christ. In his own words, Gary believed: God has blessed my life and allowed me to share those resources with others. Our purpose in life is to love and help others find the glory of salvation; putting God first, your partner-wife Lisa, your families and friends are basic priorities in living your life on earth. I look forward to our next reunion in Heaven. Mr. Dodd is preceded in death by a son Ryan Dodd; fathers Bobby Dodd and John Maloian; brother-in-law Bobby Altman (Laura); and sister-in-law Denise King (Everett). He is survived by his wife Lisa; three children and spouses Brent and Sara Dodd of Ethiopia, Jason and Tiffany Dodd of Hinesville, Georgia; and Ashley Dodd of Richmond Hill, Georgia; grandchildren Jayce and Pareeya; mother Betty Maloian; sisters Marilyn Stengle (Dan) and Gloria Elkins; brother Robert Dodd (Shelia); uncle Dr. Don Dodd; brother-in-law Kenny Altman (Sandy); sister-in-law Christina Copeland (John); and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be 5:00-8:00 pm Tuesday, July 16, 2013 at Carter Funeral Home Oglethorpe Chapel. Funeral services will be 2:00 pm Wednesday, July 17, 2013 at First Baptist Church of Hinesville and burial will follow in Hinesville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please share your resources by donating to the Ronald McDonald House Charities Inc. 26345 Network Place Chicago, IL 60673-1263 or American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718. Online condolences can be made at www.carteroglethorpe.com. Carter Funeral Home Oglethorpe Chapel 912-368-3780 Savannah Morning News July 15, 2013 Please sign our Obituary Guest Book at savannnahnow.com/obituaries.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Savannah Morning News on Jul. 15, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Gary Dodd

Not sure what to say?





Don Barnard

July 8, 2021

All these years later, you are still missed Gary

Jeff Fraser

March 4, 2014

Gary was my manager when I worked at the McDonalds in Southgate Michigan in the early 70's, he fired our entire grill team one night for horsing around on the job, we all went to Cedar Point for a few days and he hired us all back when we returned, he taught us a lesson and we all liked Gary very much

Jeff Coelho

July 22, 2013

Aloha, had the privilege and pleasure of meeting Gary in Hawaii, while he was trying to add a few Hawaii radio stations to his roster.

I enjoyed working with him for that short period of time. He struck me as a man of faith, honesty and full of life and love for his family.

He invited me to have a Big Mac when i visit Savannah.

Going to take him up on it now that our family recently retired and moved to Georgia.

I know he will be over seeing the restaurant.

 

With warmest Aloha to the Dodd family

 

Jeff J Coelho

Sheryl George

July 21, 2013

My most sincere condolences to the entire Dodd family!! I still boast that my very FIRST job was with McDonalds in Hinesville, hired by Gary Dodd himself!! I worked in between BI band/football games (I was a drum major; Brent played trumpet) and over the summer break from college! Gary Dodd was a truly remarkable man!! God bless you all!!

Jim Putz

July 21, 2013

Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Southgate High School 1970.

Jim Bacote

July 19, 2013

Your Kindnesss, Concern, and Generousity will be missed by The Geechee Kunda Family and the entire community.

Ellen Donahue Lambert

July 19, 2013

What a force of nature! I remember him opening the McDonald's in Hinesville - he had a smile for everyone...ALWAYS! Bless your heart, Gary - your wonderful spirit will be missed.

July 18, 2013

Thank You for giving all of us an Opportunity to work for you and with you.
The Employees of McDonald's Claxton. You will be missed by many.

Gena Rogers

July 18, 2013

To The Dodd Family,
You all are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.

Sandy Ponto Kovacs

July 18, 2013

My thoughts and prayers to Gary's family to find peace during this most difficult time. I remember Gary in high school as a gentle yet powerful leader. God Bless!

July 17, 2013

Gary touched everyone he ever met in a very special way. He has left such a Legacy & will remain in so many hearts....until we meet again my
friend from Southgate High... Blessings to The Dodd family....Cheri Fleming Hall

Melode Smelko

July 17, 2013

We are praying for the Dodd family and for peace during this time. Your friends at Altrua.

Greg Neusius

July 17, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of Gary. I'm sorry for such a great loss on this earth but know that God has blessed him and may God bless his family I this time of sorrow.

Keith Muller

July 17, 2013

Gary, you shall be greatly missed and greatly remembered. God Bless you and your Family

Barbara Whitcomb

July 17, 2013

The Dodd family is in my thoughts and prayers. I just heard about Gary's passing. I worked at McDonald's Greenville regional office for 10 years and he was always a very kind and he was a true gentleman. Heaven has gained a wonderful saint.

Donna Peck Lewandowski

July 17, 2013

My heart goes out to the Dodd family. Lisa I'm glad I got to see you and Gary last summer when some of us from our class of 1970 got together for dinner. I remember him as always the kindest man, always helping others, I can't ever remember a cross word he said to anyone. He will be missed. I'm so sorry for your loss. He is now reunited with his son Ryan and other loved ones in heaven.

July 17, 2013

TIPPINS BANK EMPLOYEES, CLAXTON, GA
WE SEND OUR CONDOLENCES.

Debby (McGee) McGaughey

July 16, 2013

My heartfelt sympathies to the family as you entrust this beautiful man into the arms of his Savior. Knowing into Who's arms he has fallen will give you comfort in the days ahead. He impacted the lives of many over the years. From those if us who knew him as kids in Michigan to those who worked with him in business. What a tribute it is to read so many wonderful comments. Gary will be missed and we will see him again! God bless you all.

Deborah Ouellette Bartl

July 16, 2013

Lisa and family, My condolences to you and your family. I had the pleasure of knowing Gary since the 60's and graduated with him from Southgate High School. I knew that he was going to be a great entrepreneur and businessman way back then. He has always been a great person and would do anything for anyone that asked for assistance. I'm so glad that I have seen him a few times since we graduated and so thankful that I had a great visit with him last summer when he was in Michigan. GOD BLESS you Gary and stay strong Lisa. You have the whole Class of 70' with you. If you need anything please let us know. Until we meet again Gary!

Jack Pezold

July 16, 2013

Gary and I, both from the Midwest, crossed paths in 1977 when he became a McDonald's operator in Hinesville. We struggled together in the early years, and I remember Gary for his indomitable spirit, and dedication to the System. He was the epidomy of persistence, integrity, and character, but most of all, he loved the Lord, and that love permeated all aspects of his life. Godspeed Gary, until we meet again.

Lil Shurtleff

July 16, 2013

Dear Dodd Family, We will all miss Gary. I remember meeting him when he first came to Hinesville. He has left a legacy that will long be remembered and will continue into the future.

July 16, 2013

You touched my heart and you were a great man. May the Lord bless and keep your dear family.

Dorothy & Robert Foster

July 16, 2013

God got a very special angel and this special angel will be miss very much. God bless the family and give them strength to go though this with them

Lee & Gloria Boggess

July 16, 2013

Dear Lisa and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Gary was such a great help to me and my family while I was the Director at the YMCA.I feel blessed to have had a friendship with such an outstanding man.God bless you and your loved ones

July 16, 2013

Dear Lisa & family,
Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Gary will be missed by all who knew him. God bless each of you.
Dick & Charlotte Webb

Marjorie NeSmith

July 16, 2013

Just heard the sad news. Did not know he was so seriously ill. Please know you are in my love and prayers.

Donna Crawford

July 16, 2013

Dear Lisa and family, Sending love and prayers. We are so sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful and loving man. Always smiling when you saw him. God Bless you all and Love, Bruce&Donna Crawford,Glenna Lampp,John&Diane Griffis ,Pam Smith ,Timmy&Holi Griffis

Jim Griffis

July 16, 2013

I know that GOD had a reason for taking Gary at such a young age, but that doesn't relieve my pain of not having been able to visit with him and Lisa many more times. I'll just have to wait and see him in heaven.

Within a short period of time after I first met Gary, I knew that he was my kind of person. We had so much in common. Having spent a career as an United States Army Officer I feel uniquely qualified to report that Gary was a leader and patriot of the highest order. Had he chosen a career as an Army Officer there is no doubt that he would have risen to the upper level of leadership. Equally important is that he really cared for people and was a most generous person. He was one of the most interesting persons I have ever met.

One of the most enjoyable evenings of my life was the night I spent with Gary and Lisa in Fernandina Beach when I was returning to California after visiting my ill sister (Peggy) in Waycross. Peggy loved Gary as much as she did her own children. He gave her so much joy when he visited her.

My thoughts and gratitude go out to Lisa and the other angels who gave Gary their all. He was loved immensely by his family and I know that gave him much comfort.

Johanna and I are contributors to the Ronald MacDonald House and The American Cancer Society so we will happily make a contribution in Gary's name.

LISA SMITH

July 16, 2013

Rest in peace my friend...May God comfort your loved ones...

July 16, 2013

Dear Lisa, Ashley, and Family, Mike and I were so saddened to hear of your loss. We will forever remember the wonderful Ski vacations we all went on, and the good times we enjoyed with him and the kids. He was a wonderfully kind and cheerful man, and Mike and I are grateful for the times we shared with him. You are all in our thoughts and prayers, Michael and Janene Wilson

Sandy Dobson

July 16, 2013

Dear Lisa, Brent, Jason and Ashley,
I write to express a sadness that I share with my children. We have memories that are special; my first trip to Florida, we stopped to visit, (Tyler & Trevor were 8 & 10), fishing in the pond, receiving warm hospitality. Gary was there for my wedding, for the Birth of Allison and Beau; the McDonalds Birthday parties, Beau's trip in California with the guys, and many visits to Fernandina Beach. Life pulls us in different directions. We each, bonded with Gary as he was open, loving, compassionate and giving. His legacy runs deep thru all of us, including Mrs. Suzie Skaggs (God Mother). We felt that Gary was always a phone call away if needed. I am so sorry - I send you love and light... Sincerely, Sandy

Regena Callaway

July 16, 2013

We were fortunate to be next door neighbors when Gary and family moved to Hinesville. As his business,McDonalds, grew and prospered,so did everyone that knew Gary Dodd. I will miss your smile! Rest in peace my friend.My prayers and thoughts are with the Dodd family.
Regena Purser Callaway
Dalton, Ga.

Sarah, Mackenzie, Bryce, and Chris Oldham

July 16, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. He will forever be missed. God Bless you.

Pastor Rich Wright

July 16, 2013

I extend my sympathy and support to the Dodd family in Gary's home-going. As Gary's pastor for the last 4 years, he was a source of support and encouragement for myself and many residents in this region. God has graciously received a truly Christian man into His presence. May God grant us mercy and grace as we grieve our earthly loss and heaven's gain. Lisa and family, you are greatly loved by many in our community and church. May you look to us for support as we learn to live a life without Gary in our presence but in our memories.

Linda Gurney

July 16, 2013

I am so sorry to hear of Garys' passing. I graduated with him, and both my Mother and I had the pleasure of working for him at McDonalds in Southgate, Michigan many years ago. He was a truly wonderful person and I'm glad I got to visit with him briefly last year. My thoughts and prayers are with Lisa and the whole family.

Sandy (Marsh)Perkins

July 15, 2013

Rest well my friend, you will be missed!

Art McCurry

July 15, 2013

Over the years Gary was not only a business confidant, but, more importantly, he was a friend. He will be deeply missed. My condolences to Lisa, his family and his extended family.

Randy Andonian

July 15, 2013

Lisa and family – Please accept my sincere condolences over Gary's passing. We will all miss him very much but will take some comfort in knowing that his suffering is over. I have known Gary for nearly 50 years and in that time I've not only counted him as one of my closest friends but one of the finest people I have met. His warmth, his humor, his wisdom, his generosity – and certainly his love - define Gary and a life very well lived. I wish you strength as you move forward. My thoughts and prayers will be with you.

Jill and Richard Whitfield

July 15, 2013

We met Gary in Sept of 1978 when he and his family were new to the area. We were so pleased to have a McDonald's in Hinesville. I worked with Gary on the board of Sandy Run School and have never met a more generous person. It was a pleasure and privlege knowing him. He never changed and I am so glad to know he had a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. May God continue to bless his family.

John & Sue Menard

July 15, 2013

Mr. Dodd was such a Blessing John & I we will miss so much...
Soon an very soon we will see each other again...
God Bless
John & Sue Menard

Angela Powell

July 15, 2013

Gary was a amazing person, he taught me so much and was dedicated to his family and community. I will miss him and his smile. Thoughts and Prayers for the Family.

Don Barnard

July 15, 2013

I've known Gary since we were teens working at McDonald's in Southgate, MI in the mid-60's, and moved with him in 1977 to help start the original Hinesville location. There are so many stories and memories I could share about Gary but through everything and all the years, Gary has always been the ultimate professional and cared so much for all who crossed his path. Gary will be missed by so many who have known him and to the countless others who will benefit by his generosity. This is such a great loss and Gary has fought a long battle. My thoughts and prayers go out to Gary's entire family and because of their faith, they know he is in a better place. We will meet up again Gary...

July 15, 2013

Gary we will love You! Always & Forever. Lisa Reeder & family. Aunt Net too. Michigan family

Bruce & Debbie Burnett

July 15, 2013

We lost a special person and a lifelong friend, Gary you will always be in our hearts and memories.

Dick / Cheryl Peluso

July 15, 2013

Gary waa very special to me and my family. He was Very uplifting and never let me down. We will miss him dearly.

Patt Gleason

July 15, 2013

The battle is over. Rest.

Margie DeLoach Love

July 15, 2013

Gary Dodd will certainly be missed by the whole community. I am glad that our paths crossed many times while I was in Hinesville. May God richly bless the family during this very sad time. Remember all the precious times you shared with him.

Sharon Hinderer

July 15, 2013

To Gary's family - he will be missed very much - Our thoughts and prayers will be with you - Putbrese Hunsaker & Trent, P.C.

John Trent

July 15, 2013

Gary was a great guy and I am honored to say he was my friend. Gary, I will miss not having you with us fishing in Canada, but I know you will be there in spirit.

Marcus Vargas

July 15, 2013

What a great man, he will be miss, one day we are going to see each other in heaven. Family hold your head up, he was a happy man. bebless.

Becky

July 14, 2013

Im so sorry for your loss..Mr Gary had a big heart and was always there to help me everytime I called! He was truly a good man..He will be missed by many especially me...Praying for the family.Becky S Fowler..Long County

Sharon Joiner

July 14, 2013

Gary's family is in my thoughts and prayers. Gary was always a wonderful contributor to the community. I remember when our school created a unique reading program for the K-2 students, Gary agreed to support the program through gifts and free lunches as incentives for the top readers. The program was called The McRead Reading Program. Many students were impacted in positive ways by the program and Gary's support and contributions. He will be greatly missed.

chap clark

July 14, 2013

to the family of mr gary dodd so sorry for your loss

Becky Branch

July 14, 2013

To each of Gary's loved ones I send my thoughts and prayers. The years I worked for the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce Gary was one of the strongest supporters, always first to step in and help with each function, always giving back to the community he loved. God Bless You.

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