Dodie Lawrence age 68 died at her home on Sunday, October 9, 2022. A gathering of friends and family will be 4-6:00 p.m. Monday, October 17, at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care, 414 Lincoln Way, Ames, with a time of sharing to follow.
Dodie was born on September 5, 1954, in Chariton, Iowa. She was an only child, adopted by Carl and Maxine (Mason) Johnson. She graduated from Ballard High School and then attended Trinity Bible College in North Dakota for one year. She then returned to Iowa and finished her Associate Degree at DMACC. Dodie loved children and was an in-home childcare provider for over thirty years. She loved a house full of people. She even opened her home one Thanksgiving for many friends and daycare families when an unexpected blizzard hit. She loved her cats, sometimes more than her kids. She loved her family and her many friends. She was loved and admired by many. She had a great sense of humor and would share several jokes daily on social media. She loved music and enjoyed going to live bands. She enjoyed going on day trips with her best friends. She liked to go to the car races in Boone and sponsored a few cars over the years. Dodie loved Christmas and holiday music. She loved it when the radio stations would play Christmas music in July.
She married Peter Lawrence, and he preceded her in death November of 2008.
Dodie is survived by her children, Erica (Travis) Lenig, Jarrod Holt and Ashley (Marshall) Shoemaker, 4 grandchildren, Amanda, Emma, Ella, and Dylan and three great grandchildren, Dean, Wyatt, and Irene.
She was also preceded in death by her parents.
I am so glad I met Dodie, though I haven't seen her in quite a while. Always there to share a joke, an anecdote or a glass of wine, or to help do my daughter's hair and all our makeup for high school dances or weddings. She's truly loved and one of a kind. My heart goes out to her family, she will definitely be missed by many. Love ya, Dodie
I can't imagine this world, or my life without "Toad". I don't know where that silly nickname came from, probably college days of too much fun and not enough sleep before getting up to go to class the next day. I first met Dodie when we were students at DMACC in Boone.....nearly 40 years ago now. We were in each others' weddings and had daughters born just 2 days apart in the same hospital room! I checked out the day before she checked in and they put her in my old room. We laughed so hard about that coincidence when we went to visit her and meet Ashley. You can never replace a friend like that and I will miss her more than I can ever say. We hadn't been in touch in recent years and that really breaks my heart. She was the best person, friend, mom, grandma and daughter of Christ. Sending all my love and sympathy to you, Erica, Jarrod and Ashley. May God Bless his newest angel.
For over 20 years I was lucky to have her in my life. As a freind as a shoulder to lean on. I was lucky to have been a member of the family to have her as my mother in law (of course mom at times). I will miss your laugh and the trouble we got in. So many of my memories included you. Still her fault I like cats and little kiddos that came out. Forever in my heart till we can cause trouble again love you
My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Aunt Dodie. While we have not been close over the years; I greatly admired her spirit. Whenever I did see her, I enJOYed every minute. May God bless and protect you all as your mourn this precious mother, grandmother, and friend. May His peace surround you at this time and always. Much love to you Aunt Dodie!
Condolences to your family Dodie. You were my friend, confidant, you were the person we went to when we needed to vent. We knew we could because with you there was no judgement. We made so many memories when I was bartending. You and Diane would make a trip to McDonald's for the toys just so we could play with them, then we had everybody playing with them. Memories are so good and so many of them involve you.
I'm going to miss you but I know I'll be seeing you again someday.
Dodie and I went way back to grade school. I spent many sleepovers and some weekend trips with her family while we were growing up and have fond memories of the time we spent together. After I graduated and moved out of state, we still tried to get together whenever I was in town. Dodie was very loyal to her friends and had lots of them. Still can't believe it. So sorry for your loss for everyone that loved her. Remember the good times as you work through the difficult days to come. Marsha Johnson
Visitation
Ames, IA 50010
Service
Ames, IA 50010
Sign in to add your memory
Let the family know who you are using one of the quick sign-in options below.
Just for verification: we never spam!
Share Photo/Memorial Tributes
Add to Your Calendar
Obit Checkin
Obituary Notifications
Get Updates - tribute notifications
Get Updates - SMS notifications
Help show your support by providing a gift of flowers and spreading the word.
Spread the Word
Help friends and acquaintances of Dora "Dodie" leave memories by sharing to Facebook
Share on Facebook