Obituary of Dorothy Jean Todd
Dorothy Jean Austin was born in Boligee, Alabama on July 15, 1950. She was the oldest of eight children born from the union of the late Thomas J. and Mattie B. (Williams) Austin. As the eldest child, Dorothy, took her responsibility very seriously, leading her younger siblings by example. She would attend Monroe Public Schools and graduate with the Class of 1968.
Dorothy married Robert E. Todd Sr. on November 22, 1969. The couple would be blessed with two children. Dorothy worked at Monroe Bank and Trust as a teller for two years prior to taking a position with Detroit Edison. She was employed at DTE nine years, shoveling coal, until she took a medical retirement in 1979.
Dorothy had an infectious laugh and was an excellent listener. She had an open-door policy and was gifted with reason and common sense. She was the confidant to many, as people felt very comfortable sharing with her. Those seeking her insight knew that it often started with her signature line, “I can only tell you what I know”.
Dorothy also was a wonderful cook, and family often lamented about her delicious fried chicken and greens. She enjoyed crocheting hats and blankets even teaching her son Robert the age-old task. She meticulously maintained her flowers, especially her favorite petunias. Dorothy loved to spend time with her grandchildren. She loved to watch Big Ten Football and was a diehard Michigan State Spartan fan. For many years she was a member of Second Missionary Baptist Church.
Dorothy, age 70, passed away on Friday, December 18, 2020 at Point Place Care and Rehabilitation Center where she had resided the past three and a half years. In addition to her parents her passing was preceded by one sister: Jeanette Austin Campbell; and one brother: Dwight Austin.
To cherish her memory she leaves two children: Robert E. Todd Jr. and Melissa R. Todd both of Monroe; three sisters: Barbara Austin of Taylor, Yolanda Austin of Richmond, Virginia, and Ronke Austin of Decatur, Illinois; two brothers: Willie (Josephine) Austin of Monroe and Lavern Austin of Clinton Township; eleven grandchildren: Tyteanna, D’ondra, Shantell, Dionn, D’ej’a, Demitrius, Nakea, Robert Jr., Kenyan, Elijah, and Junior; six great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Friends may gather from 11:00am-1:00pm on Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. A Homegoing Celebration of Her Life will follow at 1:00pm with Manuel Lito Mendez officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn for burial.
Online guests may visit www.merklefs.com.