James Paul Dodge

OXFORD – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband/father, James Paul Dodge who left us on March 24th at Ocala Health and Rehabilitation Center in Florida with his loving wife holding his hand. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Born on April 21st, 1945, in Putnam CT, James was the son of late Paul Dodge and Elizabeth (Conley) Dodge. He graduated from Oxford High School and went on to the Army where he earned several medals. After the military he worked at UPS and finally pursued a career as a financial advisor.

James met the love of his life, Linda (Gage) and they were married on June 26th, 1965. They had 58 wonderful years together. They were blessed with four children whom they loved and adored. James was a dedicated family man who cherished time spent with his loved ones. He was a loving father, a man of integrity with a dry sense of humor. He was a lifetime member of the United Methodist Church. James enjoyed traveling around the world with his wife. He had a love for golfing and spending the winters as a snowbird in Florida.

He is survived by his wife Linda Dodge, his children Darrell Dodge, Dawn Esposito and her husband John, Lorelle Dodge, Jamie Dodge and her husband Steven Smart. His sibling Charles Dodge and his wife Denise, his grandchildren LeeAnn Lanucha, Darren Dodge, Erica Hyde, Connor Anisko, Kelsey Anisko, Madelyn Hicks, and Kayla Dodge. Along with 7 great grandchildren. He has joined his beloved fur baby Bessie, which he has been accused of loving more than his children. There are many other family members including nieces and nephews and friends who will miss him dearly.

Our family would like to give our appreciation to Ocala Health and Rehabilitation Center in Ocala Florida. James was in their care for the last year and half of his life. We appreciate the love and care he received. He was treated with respect, kindness, and dignity. For the last year and half of his life, they were his family as well as ours. Thank you.

Our mother Linda has our sincere gratitude. We are aware that our father fought for you because of your devotion, love, and support for him.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the Oxford United Methodist Church, 465 Main St., Oxford. Military funeral honors will follow at North Cemetery in Oxford.

James will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace. "In the pool" until we meet again.