Melba Robertson Dodson, 87

Melba Robertson Dodson aka Mama “D”, our beloved firecracker, family matriarch, and piano-playing queen, passed away Tuesday, May 27, 2025 leaving behind a life beautifully lived and stories we’ll be laughing about for years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gilmer A. Dodson. —

She leaves behind her treasured misfit crew — known as the Grubb family — Hannah, Kolby, and Logan; the Tankersley family — Ali, Josh, Asher, and Robert; and the Dodson family — Allen, Nell, and their crew. Together, they carry on her legacy of sass, strength.

She spent 22 years at Rutherford Hospital, serving five years in medical records and 17 as the secretary of the pathology department. She later left to become the full-time secretary — and co-owner — of Midway Auto Trim with her husband, a business they ran side by side for 45 years.

But her real stage was behind a piano. She started playing at Cedar Grove at age eight and became the full-time pianist at just 13. She was christened at two and never left Cedar Grove— always decorating the vestibule and making sure everything was just right, with just the right flair.

She served as receptionist for the American Goat Association (yes, goats), was a proud member of the Forest City Merchants Association (possibly secretary or treasurer, depending on the day), and helped register cars for Hot Nights and Cool Rides for many years. She also helped organize the town’s Christmas parade. Her 1956 Chevy Nomad “Pretty Lady,” wasn’t just any car — she was a national champion.

She was the wild one — the life of the party, always dressed to the nines, ready to shop on a whim, and never missed a chance to shake a leg. She was fun-loving, outspoken, and fiercely loyal. She was the glue that held everyone together.

She leaves behind big shoes to fill and an even bigger space in our hearts. She will be missed more than words can say, but we know she’s already rearranging Heaven’s vestibule — and making sure the music’s just right.

A Graveside Service will be conducted at 11:00 am Friday, May 30, 2025 at Cedar Grove Fellowship Cemetery. Hannah Grubb and Dwight Hollifield will offer words of comfort. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Cedar Grove Church Music Fund, PO Box 278, Bostic, NC 28018. 

Online condolences @www.washburndorsey.com.