Franklin Elvin Dodson

He was born on April 2, 1950, in Bloomington, son of Floyd Elvin and Katherine Murrell Dodson. He married Nelda Fosdick on November 13, 1971.

Surviving are his wife, Nelda of Normal; five daughters, Gidget Dodson, Heidi (Norm) Hicks, Misty Dodson, Jodie Dodson and Sylvia (Craig) Ashenbremer; one son, Franklin II (Krystal) Dodson; 20 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Also surviving are three sisters, Jeannette Cole, Joyce Dodson and Linda Taylor; three brothers, Jack (Lucy) Dodson, David (Debbie) Dodson and Michael (Brenda) Dodson; two sisters-in-law, Rosie (Paul) Oltremari and Sharon Fosdick Fesmire; one brother-in-law, Frankie (Pam) Fosdick and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one great-granddaughter; mother-in-law, Nellie Fosdick; four nephews, Terry Lee Cole, Joey Garrett, Mikie Dodson and Tyson Dodson and three brothers-in-law, Terry Cole, Ben Taylor and Eddie Fosdick.

He had a love for the outdoors, his horses and anything western. He loved spending time with his family and friends. Franklin dedicated 37 years to Connect Transit, leaving an impact on all those he met over the years. In his retirement, he chose to work for Heller in El Paso, IL, bringing vehicles back for the dealership, which he loved doing. This gave him something to do, plus he enjoyed all the vehicles he had a chance to drive, not to mention, the ability to travel.

His funeral will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at East Lawn Funeral Home, Bloomington, where visitation will begin at 9:00 am. Interment will be at East Lawn Memorial Gardens, Bloomington, immediately following services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Nelda Dodson for help with funeral expenses.

Franklin loved his family and friends and will be missed by all those who knew him.

To share condolences with the family or to view his online tribute, please visit EastLawnMemorial.com