August 3, 1941 ~ July 22, 2026
Izella Huff Dodson passed from this life on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, surrounded with love by her family and friends.
She was born on August 3, 1941, in Clayton, New Mexico, to John and Nell Huff. She graduated from Valley Springs High School, where she met the love of her life, Joe Dodson. They were married on November 28, 1959, in Valley Springs, Arkansas, and shared more than 64 wonderful years together before Joe’s passing in 2024.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Dodson; her son, Tommy J. Dodson; her parents, John and Nell Huff; and Joe’s parents, Walcie and David Arthur Dodson.
She is survived by her son, Randy Dodson (Rhonda Witt); her son-in-law, Barry Oliver; her grandchildren, Jake Dodson and Marissa Dodson; her brothers, Gary Huff and David Huff; her grandchildren’s mother, Kathy Markes; along with many beloved extended family and dear friends.
For most of her adult life, Izella worked alongside Joe in the ranching industry. Together they built a life rooted in hard work, dedication, and love for their family.
Izella found joy in the beauty of everyday life. She loved tending her flowers and gardens, playing the piano, and spending time with those she loved. She was known for her quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and the warmth she showed to everyone she met. Whether sharing a laugh, offering a kind word, or simply enjoying the company of family and friends, Izella had a gift for making people feel at home. She treasured the lifelong friendships she built and was deeply loved by her family and the Welch community.
Above all, Izella was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her love, kindness, resilience, and joyful spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Services are scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., at the Welch Baptist Church. John Foley and Greg Highsmith will officiate. Bob Whitchurch will provide a special rendition of Amazing Grace, Izella’s favorite hymn. Interment will be at Walker Cemetery with family only.
The family would like to recognize a special group of friends whose kindness, friendship, and support meant so much to Izella over the years. These individuals will be honored as Honorary Pallbearers during the funeral service.
Memorial donations in Izella’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and to the Welch Fire Department at P.O. Box 277, Welch, OK 74369.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff of INTEGRIS Health Miami Hospital, Hillcrest Medical Center, and Good Shepherd Hospice for the compassionate care and kindness they provided to Izella and her family.
Services have been placed in the care of the Burckhalter-Highsmith Funeral and Cremation Services of Vinita.