Dorothy Williams Hodgkins

HODGKINS, Dorothy Ellen “Dottie” (Williams) of Lutz, FL, passed away peacefully in her home on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the spectacular age of 101.  Born in Fort Worth, TX, on December 23, 1923, to Edward and Pearl Williams, Dottie was raised with three brothers who doted on their only sister. Growing up on a farm nurtured her love of animals, which would become a lifelong passion. The family’s move to the newly founded Lake Worth community in 1937 introduced Dottie to Hal, her high-school sweetheart and husband of 69 years. She was a graduate of Lake Worth High School and Brantley-Draughon Business College and was a licensed real estate broker.

Marrying an ambitious Air Force man meant signing up for a life of adventure, and Dottie embraced the challenge. She gave birth to the apple of her eye, Skip, in 1948, and together (with many pets) they traveled the world, twice crossing the International Date Line by boat during moves across the globe. She hosted parties and established beautiful homes for her family in Texas, California, Illinois, Alabama, Arkansas, Virginia and the Philippines before settling in Florida in 1967.

Dottie was a talented painter, sculptor, baker and bonsai artist. The second half of her life brought the joy of being a grandparent and great-grandparent, and she was present in their lives in every sense. Name an event, she was there – always supporting her family, even when that meant wearing a silly costume. Dottie’s warm and generous spirit meant embracing (and spoiling) many extended family members and honorary grandchildren as well. Her sweetness could in part be credited to the Dr. Pepper and Hershey bars she kept on hand at all times.

Dottie is survived by her devoted son, Charles “Skip” Hodgkins (Cindy), who lovingly cared for her to the end; granddaughters Ellie Gunshanan (Jim) and Raeme Crosby (Justin); great-grandchildren Jordan, Delaney and Cash; and many nieces, nephews, grands and family friends around the world who were showered by her love and will miss her forever. She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Lt. Col. Harold “Hal” Hodgkins; parents Edward and Pearl Williams (Pritchett); brothers Edward, James and J.D. Williams and their spouses; and dozens of beloved pets.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Street, Bushnell, Florida 33513. The family will receive guests at Dottie’s home in Lutz immediately following the service. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the World Wildlife Fund (http://www.worldwildlife.org) or adopting from your local animal shelter.]