Helen Francis Dove

Helen Francis Dove, 78, passed away peacefully April 24, 2026, at Skyview Springs Nursing Home and Rehab in Luray, VA.

The daughter of Acery and Gladys Dodson, she was born on October 6, 1947, and was delivered at home by her paternal grandmother.  

A native of Rappahannock County, she was raised in Viewtown, near Forrest Grove. Her best friends in childhood were the Smiths, Peggy (Stringfellow), Janice "Pee Wee" (Cooke) and Ellis "Bootie" Smith and the Jolliffe twins, Barry and Larry. As a child, Helen and her sister, Becky, along with the Jolliffe twins, won a dance contest and the prize was a week at 4-H camp. Helen continued her love for dancing for many years into adulthood.

In the early 70's, Helen and her first husband, Carson Edwards, moved to Catlett and raised their daughter, Teresa, there. 

Helen was involved with the Trinity United Methodist Church, the Cedar Run Volunteer Rescue Squad and was the unofficial babysitter for the neighborhood. She also worked at the Catlett IGA for many years. 

After her divorce, she married David Dove, also from Catlett, April 5, 1993. They enjoyed going to Charles Town, Skyline Drive, and were known for throwing Halloween parties and for their Christmas decorations. In 2020, they moved to Luray.  

Helen is survived by husband David; daughter Teresa Edwards; and her 2 cats, Callie and Dillon. She is also survived by sister Barbara Settle of Viewtown; sister Becky Frazier of Madison; brother Billy Dodson of Culpeper; sister-in-law Shirley Dodson of Viewtown; stepson Dave Dove; many nieces and nephews; and a step granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her parents, Acery and Gladys Dodson; her brother, Charles Dodson; and her sister, Joan Reid.

A memorial service will be held in her honor at a future time. 

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