06/25/2026
Janet Arlene Dodds (Ellis), age 86, of Xenia, passed away peacefully Tuesday June 23, 2026, at Legacy Village in Xenia. She was born June 26, 1939, in Clinton County, the daughter of the late Donald H. and Lillian K. (Fairchild) Ellis.
Janet had a love for life’s simple pleasures. She liked bike riding and enjoyed peaceful walks, shopping, reading, and baking cookies. Above all, nothing brought her greater joy than taking long, scenic car rides. Janet dedicated her professional life to education and community service. She retired in 2005 from the Xenia City School System, where she served faithfully as the secretary for Arrowood School and as a secretary for the School Board. Her dedication to the schools did not end with her career; following her retirement, she continued to give back generously by volunteering her time at the school board. A proud graduate of Waynesville High School, Janet valued education and lifelong learning. She went on to further her studies and professional skills at Miami Jacobs Business College. She was deeply invested in her local community and professional networks. She was a dedicated member of the Chester Township New Burlington Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, supporting local first responders. Additionally, she was also an active member of the American Business Women's Association (ABWA). Janet leaves behind her loving son, Darin (Theresa) Dodge; a grandson, Aaron (Allison) Dodge; a granddaughter, Maleigha (Jake) Hamilton; four great-grandsons, Arison Dodge, Adler Dodge, Weslee Hamilton and Kole Hamilton; her sister, Linda L. Andy; a Sister-In-Law, Marlene Ellis; and a niece and nephews. In addition to her parents, Janet is preceded in death by her husband, Roger L. Dodds; a daughter, Darla A. Dodge; a brother Jerry R. Ellis; and her brother-in-law Richard J. Andy. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 29, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home. Wilmington. Friends and family may visit the funeral home from 10:00 a.m. until service begins at 11:00 a.m. Steve Collett will officiate. Immediately following services, burial will take place in Miami Cemetery, Corwin, Ohio. For those wishing to make memorial contributions in Janet's memory, you may do so by giving to a charity of your choice, in Janet's name. To leave online condolences, please visit www.arehart-brown.com or visit the page, Brown funeral home.
