We celebrate the life of our own Yellow Rose, Dodie Arnone. Dodie passed away on
August 7, 2023 and was preceded in death by her parents, husband Frank, infant
daughter, Kathleen and sisters Peggy Huber and Patty Kennerly. Dodie was born in
Lockhart, TX to Helen and Gene Gillespie on January 14, 1939 and later settled in
Alice, TX.
Dodie was truly a country girl who loved to go barefoot and ride horses. She was often
seen in the company of her two younger sisters, Melody and Marilyn, whose favorite
saying was "Me too!"
Dodie met and married the love of her life, a sailor, on a blind date and traveled for
nearly twenty years to different places with her growing family. Her first born, Mary
Richele Moore, arrived in New York and later blessed Dodie with three wonderful
grandsons, Charlie, Alec, and George. While stationed in Guam, Dodie gave birth to her
second daughter, Michele Ann Whitt, who gave her Summer, Amber, Brad, and Tamara.
The third daughter, Deborah (Joe) Werner, was born in California and blessed her with
Jessica, Tina, and Jean. Her fourth daughter, Francine Learee (David) Johnson, arrived
back home in Texas and gave her Melanie and Eric. The baby of the family, Jo Ann
Marie Stoll, was also born in Texas and blessed her with Robbie, Emily and Kathleen.
Dodie, always a devoted catholic, was very active in her church. She received several
awards for her participation and support of the youth. Whether it was the CYO, religious
education coordinator or eucharistic minister, Dodie gave it her all. Everyone knew and
loved Mrs. A.
Dodie loved learning and trying new things. She enjoyed crocheting, drawing, reading,
puzzles, road trips and spending time outdoors. Some of her most memorable times
included road tripping long miles across the country to visit family. Whether it was
driving from California to New York, or New York to Texas and back again, anything that
involved being with her family gave her joy.
Dodie is survived by her brother Gene (Jo) Gillespie, sisters, Melody Garrison and
Marilyn (Ron), Maribella, 15 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
"You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide
And though we cannot see you, you are always at our side."
PS God said, "Go forth and populate." So she did