Marion Callis Dodson

Born on the 4th of October 1941, in Sudan, Texas, Marion carried a deep love for his Texas roots throughout his life. He graduated from Galena Park High School, where he proudly wore the Yellow Jacket colors with pride, was a standout football player and formed friendships that remained some of the most treasured relationships of his life. One Wednesday a month until the very end, he looked forward to gathering with his lifelong Galena Park friends at Memorial Park to hit golf balls, enjoy lunch, and spend time together outdoors. Those friendships were a constant source of joy and laughter throughout his life.

Marion proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard. His stories of his time serving were legendary among family and friends, often filled with humor, adventure, and unmistakable sparkle of a man who enjoyed life and loved his country.

The greatest love of Marion’s life was his wife, Trisha. Their 55-year marriage was built on unwavering devotion, companionship, laughter and a love that never faded. He was happiest wherever Trisha was, and if they happened to be apart, there was usually a little good-natured pouting involved. Together they built a beautiful life centered on family, faith and adventure. They traveled the world together, creating memories that became treasured family stories. Of all their travels, one remained especially close to Marion’s heart – a family safari in Africa, an adventure he spoke about until his final days. Trisha and Marion were long term members of Tallowood Baptist Church before joining Second Baptist Church.

Family was the center of Marion’s world. He was a proud father to Christopher Marion Dodson and Julie Dodson Webster. One of his greatest joys was coaching his children’s sports teams. Even when he wasn’t originally the designated coach, before the season started, he had earned the coaching shirt – and he wore it with pride. He never missed a game, always showing up, encouraging, teaching and cheering from the sidelines. His children never had to wonder if Dad would be there, he always was.

Marion found great happiness at the family’s beloved country home in Burton, Texas, a place that brought him peace and countless happy memories. He loved spending time outdoors, tinkering for hours in the garage, gathering with family and friends, and making trips into nearby Round Top. Whether sharing stories on the porch or relaxing with one of his favorite peach smashes or an Old Fashioned, Marion had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome. He truly never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone.

Marion also had an extraordinary love for animals. Throughout the years there were always beloved dogs by his side. While he loved every one of them, a little Corgi-Lab mix named Lucy held a particularly special place in his heart. He delighted in throwing a frisbee and watching Lucy leap high into the air to make the catch. His gentle affection for animals reflected the kindness, loyalty, and generous heart that defined the way he lived his life.

Those who knew Marion will remember him as dependable, faithful, and endlessly giving. He possessed a quiet strength, an infectious sense of humor, and a steady presence that made others feel safe and loved. Whether he was coaching a ball game, lending a helping hand, sharing a story, or simply sitting beside those he loved, Marion made every moment count. His greatest legacy is the example he set through his love for his family, his loyalty to his friends, and the kindness he showed to everyone he met.

Above all, Marion will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, faithful friend, and a man whose life was rich in love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to those who mattered most. Though his presence will be profoundly missed, his stories, his example, and the love he gave so freely will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Marion is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years Trisha Dodson; his son, Christopher Marion Dodson; his daughter, Julie Dodson Webster, and her husband Barrett Webster; and his cherished grandchildren, Emma Whitehead, Wallace Webster, and Thomas Webster; and many countless cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents Ivyl Bryant Dodson and Ruby Jewel Atteberry Dodson; his siblings, Iris Joe Dodson (his wife Arlene), Patricia Dodson Buckelew (her husband Buck) and Betty Sue Dodson Finke (her husband Wilbur Lee Finke).

The family would like to extend their deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary caregivers who so lovingly cared for Marion throughout his journey. To Sandra, Vonda, Virginia, Michelline, Imogene, Barbara, Fred and Susan – your compassion, patience, kindness and unwavering devotion brought comfort not only to Marion, but to our entire family. Your care went far beyond your responsibilities, and we will forever be grateful for the love and dignity you showed him each day. Thank you for walking beside us during such a difficult time and for treating Marion with such exceptional care and respect. To each of you who cared for him, supported us, and loved him along the way, please know that your kindness will never be forgotten. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

His family finds comfort in knowing that a life so well lived leaves a legacy that time can never erase.

Friends are cordially invited to a Celebration of Life in Honor of Marion Callis Dodson from one o'clock until four

o'clock in the afternoon on Sunday, the 4th of October at the Houston Racquet Club, 10709 Memorial Drive in Houston.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to Burton Heritage Society, Lola’s Lucky Day or CAPS by accessing the links under ‘Donations’ below.

We invite you to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with his family by selecting the ‘Add a Memory’ icon under the ‘Show your Support' section below.