Newport, NH – Mary E. (Woods) Dodge of Newport, NH entered eternal rest at home, surrounded by her family on Monday, August 25, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer.
She was the daughter of the late Robert F. Woods and Eleanor (Fitzgerald) Kingsley; also her stepfather, Roy Kingsley.
Mary was born in Chittenden, VT and grew up in Solon, ME. As an adult, later moving to MA and CT and eventually Newport, NH where she resided for 67 years.
In her early career she worked at Winchester in CT. Later, after moving to Newport she was employed at Newport shoe shops and later at Sturm Ruger where she started in the woodworking department as a hand checkerer. She later moved to the assembly department and lastly the customer service department before retiring with 24 years of service to the company. She enjoyed her years at Ruger and made many special friends.
Mary most enjoyed her life as a loving daughter, wife and mother. She adored her family and large gatherings with her Woods family were especially treasured.
An animal lover at heart, she shared her life with several dogs and kitties who brought immense joy and laughter to her life.
She had many interests and hobbies through the years. She was an avid reader, crafter, knitter, quilter and faithful follower of The Price is Right and Wheel of Fortune game shows.
She also enjoyed cooking and baking and was exceptional at it. Her homemade yeast bread and pies will never be forgotten. She also canned vegetables, pickles and jams with produce from her own garden. She loved her flower gardens too. She also enjoyed several visits to “Amish Country” in Lancaster, PA.
Mary enjoyed camping and traveling. Beginning with a tent throughout the West and Rocky Mountains, to a pop-up in Prince Edward Island and Old Orchard Beach. Finally finishing with a 5th wheel and later custom park model she designed herself as a 14 year ocean side, seasonal resident in York Beach Maine.
She was a member of Aurora Chapter 26 of the Eastern Star and received her 60 year pin many years ago for her service. She was also a member of the Moose in Newport, NH. She enjoyed the many suppers and dancing at “The Club” with her husband Reggie. She also enjoyed antique collecting with Reggie, especially collecting Red Block glass and Wilton Armetale dishes. She also collected Amish quilts to bring home as keepsakes of special times in Amish Country.
Mary leaves behind her devoted husband Reggie. They would have celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on October 10. She also leaves her daughters, the late Cheryl Jameson of New Haven, CT, Cindy Boyce (and husband Dan) of Zuni, VA, and Regina Dodge of Newport, NH. Grandchildren Raymond Jameson (and Erin) of Sutton, NH, Christopher Boyce (and Danielle) of Zuni, VA, and Vanessa Companion of Stratham, NH. Great grandchildren Quinn, Brayden, and Cash Waylon.
Mary was known for her quiet, gentle way, her courage and endless positivity. She was a woman of great inner strength and faith in the Lord. She was cherished beyond measure and will be missed tremendously.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 29th at 11 AM at Pine Grove Cemetery in Newport, NH with a reception immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, donations should be made in Mary’s name to Sullivan County Humane Society, 14 Tremont St., PO Box 111, Claremont, NH 03743.
Newton-Bartlett Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
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