Morris C. Dodge, III

Morris C. Dodge III, of Franklin and Pittsburg, NH, passed away peacefully at home on December 15, 2024, at the age of 77. Morris was a lifelong member of the Franklin community, cherished for his kind heart, passion for the outdoors, and deep love for his family. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to the New Hampshire Interscholastic Athletic Association (NHIAA), where he spent many years as an umpire supporting baseball teams across the state. In his later years, his enthusiasm for sports continued to shine through his growing love of golf. Morris proudly served in the U.S. Navy after graduating high school, earning an honorable discharge in 1973. His professional life included many years as a skilled meat cutter at Packer’s Outlet and Hannaford (formerly Shop ‘n Save) in Franklin, as well as running his own business, the ‘River Road Butcher Shop’ in Pittsburg, NH. Additionally, Morris owned and operated the ‘Lakes Region Trading Post’ in New Hampton and Winnisquam, NH, where he provided countless outdoor enthusiasts with hunting and fishing supplies. His love for sports extended into umpiring, where he worked with organizations such as the NHIAA, ASA, and the American Legion for many years. An avid hunter and fisherman, Morris delighted in traveling across the Northeast and Canada to pursue his passions. Born on July 24, 1947, to Morris Jr. and Rose (Rainville) Dodge, Morris is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Priscilla (Champion) Dodge; his three children: Charles “Chuck” Dodge and his wife Jessica of Millville, MA; Timothy Dodge and his husband Michael of Derry, NH; and Kristy Woodward and her partner Jason of Franklin, NH. He also leaves behind his siblings: Susan Blothenberg of Amherst, NH; Debra Dodge-Bjork and her husband Ernie of Franklin, NH; Dave Dodge and his husband Pat of Merida, Mexico; and Linda Morrill and her husband Glenn of Hill, NH. Morris was a devoted grandfather to his two cherished grandchildren, Morgan Woodward and Nash Dodge, who will hold his memory close to their hearts forever. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss him dearly. Visting hours will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2024 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Smart Memorial Home, 584 West Main St., Tilton. A service to honor and celebrate Morris’s life will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 11:00 am at the funeral home. A reception will follow the service at the Franklin Elks Lodge 1280, 120 South Main St., Franklin. Burial will be on Friday, June 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM in Franklin Cemetery in Franklin. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the NH Humane Society, 1305 Meredith Center Rd, Laconia 03246.

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Morris C. Dodge, III

July 24, 1947 - December 15, 2024