Phyllis Lee Dodge

Following a long battle with Alzheimer’s, Phyllis Lee Dodge (Irby), 84, peacefully completed her journey on February 11, 2025. She was born on January 15, 1941 in Lynchburg, Virginia. Her wish was to remain at home surrounded by the love of her family; testament to how she lived her life- devoted to her faith, family, and the care of others.

Phyllis spent most of her life as a dedicated wife and homemaker, nurturing a home filled with love and warmth. She also worked in the child care field for 15 years, a role that perfectly complemented her deep affection for children. Her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness left an indelible mark on every child who was fortunate enough to experience her loving embrace. Phyllis had a special place in her heart for children and dogs alike. Her devoted canine companions Lucy and Desi provided comfort and companionship throughout her later years.

A devoted Christian, Phyllis centered her world around faith and family. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Woodbridge and most recently worshiped at First Calvary Baptist Church in Gilbert, South Carolina. Her steadfast belief in God guided her throughout life and served as the foundation for the values she instilled in her loved ones.

Phyllis was blessed with a large and loving family. She is survived by 6 children: Kathy L. Dodge, Vickie L. Williams, Gregory A. Kennedy (Lori), Michael L. Kennedy (Page), Sandra K. Gibson (Mike), and Jenni L. Dodge; three step-children: Dennis Dodge, Patti Lee Dodge, and Timothy Dodge; brothers: Carroll Irby, (Jeanette), Mike Irby (Ella), and Harold "Butch" Irby (Nancy); as well as 21 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren. Her love extended beyond immediate family to numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and special loved ones.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husbands Marion L. Kennedy (with whom she shared 20 years) and Walter A. Dodge (with whom she shared 31 years); parents Howard and Annie Alise Irby; brothers Robert Irby, Gerald Irby, Donald Irby, and sister Patsy Ann Irby; son-in-law Johnny Lee Dodge; daughter-in-law Lori Kennedy; son-in-law Joseph Williams; nephew Aaron Irby; and great-granddaughter Maya Leigh Dickens.

A viewing will be held on February 17, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Mullins and Thompson Funeral Home, located at 186 Shelton Shop Rd, Stafford, Virginia. A Celebration of Life service will follow at the same location at 12:30 PM with graveside burial taking place immediately afterward at Stafford Memorial Park at 154 Shelton Shop Rd. A reception will follow at Mullins and Thompson Funeral Home.

Phyllis’s legacy is one of love—love for family, faith, children, dogs, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.