George Edward Dodge, Jr.

On Monday, April 13, 2020, George Edward Dodge, Jr. passed away. Ed was born on July, 4, 1935 in Key West Florida, and lived his life as a true renaissance man with a passion and talent for art, literature, photography, nature, and sport, particularly golf. He was a true patriot and veteran, serving in the US Navy aboard the USS Wisconsin. Ed always had salt water running through his veins and was most at home on the water, salt spray in his face, piloting his boat and trying to land the next striper or blue. He loved Newburyport and the seacoast.

A true visionary, Ed was a founding member of the Newburyport Redevelopment Authority (NRA), a grass roots group of citizens who catalyzed the rebirth and reconstruction of Newburyport as we know it today. The work of the NRA became a model for the redevelopment of Portsmouth and other communities. Ed’s dedication to revitalizing the potential and beauty in the city of Newburyport is honored to this day.

Ed was a dedicated and loving family man, always committed to the success of his children. He coached youth sports and spent many early mornings in cold hockey rinks, and afternoons and evenings in the stands lending his support, cheering on his flock of Clippers.

Ed had a lengthy and successful career as both a free-lance and Boston advertising executive working his way from the mail room to writing copy to managing large accounts. After retiring from the advertising business, he took on the role of entrepreneur as owner of the Pierce Gallery in Portsmouth. It was at this time that his love and talent for painting blossomed; Ed became an accomplished and prolific painter, producing many fine works of art.

Ed and his wife Sandy ultimately retired and spent many great years wintering in Naples, Florida. Ed happily returned to his beloved Newburyport during the summer or to his camp on Sebago Lake. During these years, Ed rediscovered his passion for golf, enjoying time with both friends and family.

Ed’s legacy and spirit live on through his beloved wife of 62 years Sandra Dodge, his five children Stephen and wife Kate, Geoffrey and wife Nora, Pamela Rugg and husband Martin, Christopher and  wife Anne, and Timothy and wife Carrie, and his 9 grandchildren, Oliver, William, Claudia, Abigail, Brandon, Allyson, Arianna, Benjamin and Jack.   Ed’s life epitomized devotion to family as well as the beautiful city by the sea that was his home.

Funeral services will be provided by Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home. A private service will be held for family with a future, celebration of life to follow.

Donations in Ed’s memory can be made to the charity of your choice.

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