Roger Russell Dodds

Rev. Dr. Roger Russell Dodds, 74, of Blythewood, died Thursday, April 2, 2026. Born on January 7, 1952, in Torrington, Wyoming, he was the son of the late Russell Herbert Dodds and Patricia Ann Carlis Dodds.

Roger was loved by many and will be greatly missed. He was a disciple of Jesus Christ and a faithful shepherd to His church, a husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He had an adventurous and courageous spirit that strengthened and emboldened those around him. Roger enjoyed running, martial arts, and hiking in the mountains. He leaves behind an enduring legacy characterized by sacrificial service to others. His heart of service was evidenced through many roles over the years including being a medic during the Vietnam war, a paramedic, a respiratory therapist, an Air Force chaplain and a UMC pastor. In everything he did, he sought to bring people into a relationship with Jesus. Roger would tell you he was an imperfect man who served a perfect Savior.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Graddick Dodds; sons, Daniel Dodds (Kiley), Matthew Dodds (Kristy), Bryan Dodds (Trisha); grandchildren, Arthur, Everett, Gideon, Stephen, Abigail, and another grandson on the way; siblings, Jeanne Drose, Kathleen Gibbs (Vince), David Dodds (Beth), Diana Morton (Bob); and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Chuck Drose, and a sister-in-law, Anne Branham.

The memorial service will be held at 2 o’clock Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Cedar Creek Baptist Church, 1920 Cedar Creek Rd, Blythewood. The family will receive friends prior to the service at the church, beginning at 1 o’clock until 2 o’clock.

The family requests memorials be made to Cedar Creek Baptist Church, 1920 Cedar Creek Road Blythewood, SC 29016.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.