Fleta Zigler Dodson

God's beloved child, Fleta Marie Zigler Dodson, ascended into eternal life on September 16, 2010. Born in Edinburg, Virginia, on April 30, 1934, Fleta was the first of two daughters born to the late Paul E. Zigler and Nina Collins Zigler. Fleta met her husband, Jack F. Dodson, at the age of twelve at the Island at Lantz Mill, later marrying him on October 12, 1952. They were parents of six children, five who survive. Fleta was a lifetime member of Wakeman's Grove Church where she taught Sunday School and was a member of the Women's Fellowship. Fleta's passion, character, love, and hard work as a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, homemaker and farmer is a standard we would all aspire to achieve and live up to in life. Throughout the challenges of farm life, Fleta and Jack were the consummate partners in nurturing their children, performing farm operations, and maintaining a vigorous and loving home. Fleta thrived on bringing together family and friends for fabulous food and warming fellowship. Whether it was a special event or an unexpected visit, Fleta had something exquisite, normally home grown and created from scratch, ready to serve. These memorable gatherings served as bonding and spiritual experiences for all partakers. Fleta's hospitality will be long remembered. Fleta took great delight in playing with her grand- and great-grandchildren. In addition, Fleta owned and operated Dodson Family Ceramics with her husband, teaching ceramic art to children and adults. Fleta enjoyed bargain shopping for Barbies and vintage items at yard sales, painting, camaraderie with her fellow painters and long time friends, traveling, gardening, decorating, and fashion. Along with her creativity and hospitality, Fleta will be remembered for her quiet dignity, style, unconditional giving, and grace. Survivors include her beloved husband of 58 years, Jack F. Dodson; children-Cinda and husband Andrew Schmitt of Suffolk, Virginia; Daron and wife Mae Dodson of Edinburg, Virginia; Tammy and husband Joseph Bullock of Purcellville, Virginia; Kim and wife Sharon Dodson of Edinburg, Virginia; and Jada and husband Thomas Cooper of Nashville, Tennessee.; 17 grandchildren-Amy, Dawn, Nickole, Kari, D. J., Jennifer, Michael, Justine, Dalton, Wyatt, Ella, Sophia, Stacey, Kitra, Pete, John, and Laura; and 16 great grandchildren. One sister, Sandra Z. Vaughn of Martinsville, Virginia, also survives her. The family will hold a celebration of life memorial service for her at Wakeman's Grove Church of the Brethren on Sunday, September 19 beginning at 5:00 p.m. Burial will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to Wakeman's Grove Church Building Fund, 608 Wakeman Road, Edinburg, VA 22824, or Woodstock Rescue Squad.

Fleta Zigler Dodson

September 17, 2010