Dorothy Stuart Goddard

Dorothy Stuart "Dottie" Goddard, age 85, of Bel Air, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 15, 2025.

Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Dottie was the daughter of the late Edward Andrew Stuart and Dorothy Deborah (Duvall) Stuart. She was the beloved wife of Charles S. Goddard, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and partnership.

Dottie was a devoted member of Bel Air United Methodist Church, where she was active in her small group Bible study for many years and served as a faithful volunteer. She was a woman of deep faith and quiet strength, whose kindness touched many lives.

Dottie was the Valedictorian of Washington, DC’s Anacostia High School, class of 1957, as well as the recipient of a full academic scholarship to George Washington University. Although a smart ‘city girl’ rather than attend college, Dottie, instead married Charlie, a ‘country boy’ from Southern Maryland whom she met on a blind date when she was 16 years old; proving that opposites do attract. After graduation, she worked for the United States Department of Labor as a secretary, later serving as the Office Manager for a local painting contractor. Dottie was later blessed to become a full-time homemaker, raising her two children at home and supporting them with unwavering love, devotion and encouragement. Dottie often said that her greatest achievements in life were her two children.

Alongside her husband, she co-owned and operated Goddard Lawn Care for many years. In her free time, Dottie enjoyed oil painting, playing the piano, and writing poetry—pursuits that reflected her gentle creativity and thoughtful spirit.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Charles S. Goddard; her loving children, Wayne (Mollie) Goddard and Elena (Stephen) Owen; and her cherished grandchildren, Sabrina Goddard, Carson Goddard, Quinn Owen, and Cole Owen.