Obituary for Harriette Yvonne Dodson (Thomas)
**In Loving Memory of Harriette Yvonne Dodson (Thomas)**
Sunrise: April 9, 1939 | Sunset: April 15, 2024
Harriette Yvonne Dodson (Thomas) passed away at home on April 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1939, in Washington, DC, she was the cherished daughter of Charles and Corona Thomas (Jackson). Harriette grew up as an only child but shared a deep bond with her cousin, John Raymond Knox, III, who was like a brother to her. She embraced her faith early in life and was baptized at New Bethel Baptist Church in Northwest, DC.
At thirteen, her mother married Dr. Carl L. Dash, who became a cherished and essential part of her life.
Harriette’s life was marked by many accomplishments and deep connections with her family. After graduating from Dunbar High School, where she excelled in marksmanship as a rifle club member, she married David W. Marsh, Jr., in September 1958. From this union, Harriette was blessed with three children: Linda Yvette, Loreen Elizabeth, and David W. Marsh, III. She pursued her passion for nursing by attending the Margaret Murray Washington School of Nursing, where she became a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Harriette dedicated her career to caring for others at Freedman’s Hospital, now known as Howard University Hospital.
In January 1966, Harriette married George A. Dodson, Jr., and welcomed another daughter, Lisa Yvonne, into her family. Throughout her life, Harriette found joy and solace in music, singing with the Sanctuary Choristers under the esteemed direction of Charles W. Fleming. She retired from Howard University Hospital and later enjoyed traveling with the Howard University Retirees Association and her extended family.
In 2000, Harriette moved in with her eldest daughter, Linda, and son-in-law, Douglas Cureton. There, she shared her passion for music by teaching piano at Linda’s Piano Studio until her retirement in 2018 due to declining health. Harriette’s determination and strength were evident to all who knew her—she was a fighter until the end.
Harriette is survived by her stepfather, Dr. Carl L. Dash; her four children, Linda Cureton (Douglas), Loreen de Kort (Martijn), David W. Marsh, III (Darline), and Lisa Dodson; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous beloved cousins. She will be deeply missed and remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
The family appreciates all the condolences and prayers during this difficult time. Harriette’s legacy of love, resilience, and musical spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched. May she rest in eternal peace.
Sunrise: April 9, 1939 | Sunset: April 15, 2024
Harriette Yvonne Dodson (Thomas) passed away at home on April 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1939, in Washington, DC, she was the cherished daughter of Charles and Corona Thomas (Jackson). Harriette grew up as an only child but shared a deep bond with her cousin, John Raymond Knox, III, who was like a brother to her. She embraced her faith early in life and was baptized at New Bethel Baptist Church in Northwest, DC.
At thirteen, her mother married Dr. Carl L. Dash, who became a cherished and essential part of her life.
Harriette’s life was marked by many accomplishments and deep connections with her family. After graduating from Dunbar High School, where she excelled in marksmanship as a rifle club member, she married David W. Marsh, Jr., in September 1958. From this union, Harriette was blessed with three children: Linda Yvette, Loreen Elizabeth, and David W. Marsh, III. She pursued her passion for nursing by attending the Margaret Murray Washington School of Nursing, where she became a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Harriette dedicated her career to caring for others at Freedman’s Hospital, now known as Howard University Hospital.
In January 1966, Harriette married George A. Dodson, Jr., and welcomed another daughter, Lisa Yvonne, into her family. Throughout her life, Harriette found joy and solace in music, singing with the Sanctuary Choristers under the esteemed direction of Charles W. Fleming. She retired from Howard University Hospital and later enjoyed traveling with the Howard University Retirees Association and her extended family.
In 2000, Harriette moved in with her eldest daughter, Linda, and son-in-law, Douglas Cureton. There, she shared her passion for music by teaching piano at Linda’s Piano Studio until her retirement in 2018 due to declining health. Harriette’s determination and strength were evident to all who knew her—she was a fighter until the end.
Harriette is survived by her stepfather, Dr. Carl L. Dash; her four children, Linda Cureton (Douglas), Loreen de Kort (Martijn), David W. Marsh, III (Darline), and Lisa Dodson; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous beloved cousins. She will be deeply missed and remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
The family appreciates all the condolences and prayers during this difficult time. Harriette’s legacy of love, resilience, and musical spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched. May she rest in eternal peace.