Obituary of Julius Dodson

Julius Dodson born August 25, 1939 to the late William R. Dodson and Mary H. Bayard Dodson. Julius was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended the Philadelphia school system and later served in the military which provided him with discipline and opportunity to provide for his family. Upon leaving the service he faced many adversities but was able to overcome them by the grace of God. Julius’ faith in the Lord was renewed by way of Teen Challenge Bible College in Rhinebeck, New York. While attending bible college he met his devoted wife Barbara Jean Dodson; they entered holy matrimony in 1973. Julius and Barbara relocated to Detroit, Michigan where he worked on the staff of Detroit Teen Challenge, and later started his own non-profit called Challenge House Incorporated. Julius also served as the pastor for Peace Community Church in Detroit Michigan. While completing the works of the Lord, Julius was also a devoted father to his children. He also was employed with the Michigan Department of Corrections for many years. When the Lord spoke, he listened, Julius relocated his family to New York State where he ministered for some time. Julius had a calling to work with at risk youth, so he obtained a position with Glove House and worked there until he later retired. When his health began to diminish, he did not allow that to hinder the way he lived life. He laughed, he loved, and he lived on his own terms; Julius departed this world on September 30, 2020. Preceding him in death, his father William Dodson, mother Mary Dodson, brothers Joseph and John Dodson, sisters Mary Thomas and Rosetta Poteat, son Jon-Marc Dodson and beloved daughter Victoria Dodson. Julius leaves behind to cherish his memories his loving wife, Barbara Jean Dodson, 3 sons Craig Dixon, Julius Dodson Jr., David Dodson (Kristin), two daughters Jacquelyn Dodson and Robyn Johnson; a host of grand and great-grandchildren including Sade’, Aurora, Cassidy, Nerissa, Josiah, Aneisa, David Jr., Naquay, Shawntiara, Tre, Destiny, Craig Jr., De'shon, Allen, James, Fred, Serena, Julius III and Logan; one brother William Dodson Jr. (Norma) and a host of nieces, nephews, loved ones and friends whose lives he has touched over the years.