Obituary of Donald Lee Dodrill

Rocky Mount – Donald Lee Dodrill, age 91, passed away on Wednesday, December 25, 2024. Born in Webster County, WV on July 6, 1933, he was the son of the late Earl Hughes Dodrill and Ocie Lulu McGraw Dodrill. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Earl “June” Dodrill. Born and raised in West Virginia, Don graduated from Barrackville High School, received his bachelor’s degree from Fairmont State College, and his master’s from West Virginia University. Following graduation, he was drafted into the United States Army and served overseas in Bamberg, Germany. A lifelong devoted educator, he was a talented teacher, coach, and principal. Don’s proudest professional accomplishment was both serving and retiring as the 1st principal of North Marion High School, an endeavor which consolidated 5 other area schools. The school earned the states exemplary school status under his leadership in 1989. An avid sports enthusiast, Don enjoyed both watching and attending a variety of sporting events. As a man of great faith, he was a dedicated member of Shenandoah Baptist Church. He also served as both a Deacon and Sunday school superintendent at Bethesda Baptist Church in Barrackville, West Virginia. Additionally, he was a past Patron of Order of Eastern Star and was a 32nd Degree Mason with the Masonic Lodge #109 in Fairmont, WV. A devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, and good friend to many, Don will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Don is survived by his wife of 69 years, Loretta “Sweet” Wilson Dodrill; his daughter, Dawn Jill Coniglio (Louie); his son, Jeff Dodrill (Tracy); his granddaughter, Haley Coniglio Lewis; his great granddaughters, Paige Lewis and Brooke Lewis; his brother, Hartsell G. Dodrill; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and good friends. A Funeral Service to celebrate Don’s life will be held on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Shenandoah Baptist Church, 3894 Shenandoah Ct., Rocky Mount, NC 27803, with Rev. Glenn Hill officiating. Visitation with the family will be held on Saturday, December 28, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Ave., Rocky Mount, NC 27804. A memorial service will also be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 at the Bethesda Baptist Church, 502 Pike Street, Barrackville, WV at 12 noon. A Graveside Service will follow at 2:00 PM at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens, 1290 Fairmont Rd, Morgantown, WV 26501 with Rev. Dr. B David Cyphers officiating. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.