Jerry Bruce Dodd

Jerry was born on January 1, 1943, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Nellie and Ernest Dodd. The oldest of six children, Jerry grew up surrounded by family, something that would remain one of the most important parts of his life.

Jerry graduated from Georgia State University in 1967 before proudly serving his country as a Captain in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. In 1969, he was awarded the Bronze Star for his heroic actions and distinguished service. Following his military service, Jerry continued his education and graduated from Woodrow Wilson School of Law in 1980.

On March 31, 1972, Jerry married the love of his life, Jean Hendricks Dodd. For 54 years, Jerry and Jean shared a loving marriage and built a life together centered on faith, family, and the people they loved most.

Jerry enjoyed a long and successful career. He spent 25 years with Sears Roebuck, where he worked as an auditor and retail store manager. He later became an Allstate Insurance Agent and proudly owned and operated his own agency for 14 years.

While Jerry accomplished much throughout his life, his greatest joy was his family. He treasured time spent with those he loved and took great pride in his daughter, granddaughter, and great-grandchildren. Whether gathering with family, spending time at church, or simply enjoying the everyday moments of life, Jerry valued the relationships he built above all else.

Jerry’s faith was an important part of who he was. He remained actively involved in his church throughout his life and quietly demonstrated his faith through his humble, kind, and generous spirit. He was a devoted member of First Redeemer Church, where he especially enjoyed his Sunday school class and the fellowship of his Thursday morning Men’s Coffee Group.

When he wasn’t spending time with family or church friends, Jerry could often be found outside tending to his yard and vegetable garden. He took great pride in keeping his yard beautiful and was honored with Yard of the Month multiple times. Working outdoors was more than a hobby for Jerry—it was something that brought him genuine happiness.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Nellie and Ernest Dodd; his beloved brother, Wesley Dodd; his mother-in-law, Margaret Hendricks Bruce; his sister-in-law, Linda Terry and his brother-in-law, Gene Ward.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Jean Dodd; his daughter, Lisa Dodd Horejsi and her husband, Steve; his sisters, Pat McLeod and her husband, John, Virginia Ward, Linda Catlow and her husband, Cliff, Debbie Lockhart and her husband, Larry and his sister-in-law, Reta Dodd; his granddaughter, Rashelle Neely and her husband, Christopher; his beloved great-grandchildren, Easton and Leighton; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Jerry will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, caring brother, faithful friend, and proud veteran. His kindness, humility, generosity, and unwavering faith touched the lives of those around him.

Although he will be deeply missed, Jerry leaves behind a life well lived and a family who will carry his love, values, and memories with them always.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at South Forsyth Memorial Chapel, followed by a reception. A committal service, with military honors, will take place at 2:00 p.m. at Georgia National Cemetery.