Anna Dodson

Anna S. Dodson, 88, of Phenix City, AL passed away at her residence surrounded by her loved ones on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. 

A private Celebration of Life will be held on July 27, 2025 according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, GA 31907.

Anna was born on June 19, 1937, in Ingolstadt, Germany to the late Theresia and Johann Schreiber. Anna met the love of her life, Bob, during his military service in Germany in 1956. It was, as he would recount affectionately, love at first sight. Bob will often reminisce on how he was under the impression that German girls were “easy” but rightfully so, Anna slapped him for attempting to steal a kiss after their first date. But beneath this playful banter lay a profound connection. Bob often expressed that marrying Anna on August 9, 1957, was the wisest decision he ever made, a testament to their enduring partnership that would span nearly seven decades.

Those fortunate enough to have known Anna undoubtedly recall the warmth of her spirit, highlighted during a memorable moment at New Apostolic Church. In a burst of honesty, Anna humorously remarked that she was hot, prompting her dear friend Pastor Eddie Layfield to respond with a playful, “Yes you are,” bringing laughter and lightness to the congregation. The depth of Anna’s friendships shone brightly, particularly her bond with Susie Layfield, Pastor Eddie's wife. When illness befell Anna and she suffered a stroke, Susie stepped up with compassionate care, highlighting the supportive network that surrounded Anna throughout her life. The gentle humor of her family radiated through even tough times, with Bob, her beloved husband, recalling funny moments during Anna's recovery, including a cheeky jest about stealing glances at his beautiful wife during the times he had to help her into the shower.

The joy she took in maintaining a clean house was only rivaled by her love for cultivating her garden, where she tirelessly watered the plants and cherished the beauty of nature. Anna nurtured her African Violet flowers, gifted to her by a neighbor 38 years ago, which flourished under her attentive care. Her husband can attest to the sight of countless leaf piles she eagerly burned on the front lawn, each flame a testament to her home’s warmth and comfort. 

Anna is survived by her loving husband of nearly 68 years, Robert “Bob” Dodson, her devoted sons: Walter Dodson (Carol), Robert Dodson, and James Dodson (Sissy). Additionally, her joy multiplied with the arrival of grandsons Andy and his wife Kim, Jason and his wife Val, and Eric and his wife Brittany. Anna took immense pride in her role as a grandmother, showering her grandsons with love and guidance, exclusively for the cherished great-grandchildren: Greta, Hayden, Eva, Levi, McKenna, Talon, Harlow, and Rylan, and many friends, who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Though Anna Dodson is no longer with us, her spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of family and friends who were fortunate to know her.