PORTSMOUTH - Thomas Ray Dodson, Sr., 87, passed away April 4, 2021 at the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington, D.C.

A native of Portsmouth, Ray was the son of Raymond E. Dodson and Mary Ellen Dodson. He served his country honorably in the U.S. Air Force and retired as a Master Sergeant after 23 years of active duty. He later retired from the U.S. Civil Service as Division Chief, Finance and Accounting at White Sands Missile Range. He was a member of VFW Post 9382 and American Legion Post 88.

Ray was predeceased by his wife, Barbara Ann Dodson, and his sister, Elizabeth L. Bothwell. He is survived by a son, Thomas Ray Dodson, Jr.; a daughter, Natalie Darlene Holland; a sister, Jean M. Klecka; 4 grandchildren; nieces Anita, Debbie, and Mary; and his nephew Tommy and extended family.

There will be a visitation from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 14, at Foster Funeral Home, Portsmouth. A Liturgy of the Resurrection will be celebrated 11 a.m. Thursday, April 15 at the Church of St. Therese, 4137 Portsmouth Blvd., Chesapeake. Masks and six-feet social distancing will be required at all times, due to the ongoing pandemic. Burial with military honors will be at Albert Horton Veterans Cemetery at a later date. Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.