Karen (Marshall) Dodson

Karen (Marshall) Dodson, 86, a lifelong resident of Bristol, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family on Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Born and raised in Bristol, she was the oldest of five children to the late Ernest and Thelma (Jones) Marshall.  Karen was a proud graduate of Bristol High School, and carried with her the values of kindness, humility, and quiet strength that defined the remarkable woman she became.

Karen devoted her life to caring for others. From caring for her younger siblings to her longtime career as a Nurse, she was full of compassion, dedication and sacrifice.  She began her journey at Newington Children's Hospital and later for Newington VA Hospital, offering comfort to countless children and veterans. She retired from the former Nursing Care Center in Bristol, where her gentle presence left a lasting impression on residents, families, and colleagues alike.

In her quieter moments, Karen found happiness in simple pleasures. She was an avid reader, loved the beach and was a creative spirit, who found joy in knitting and crocheting.

Karen lived simply and loved deeply. She gave of herself freely and asked for little in return. Though her presence will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the comfort she gave, and the family she cherished beyond measure.

She is survived by her daughter and best friend, Alicia Mary Dodson; her sisters Connie Barnes and Maryanne Marshall; her brother Herbert Marshall; and many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her brother Eric Marshall.

In lieu of flowers, Karen’s love for reading may be remembered with contributions to the Bristol Public Library, 5 High St, Bristol or at http://www.bristollib.com

Family and friends may gather on Thursday March 12, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  A prayer service will be held at 6:30 p.m.  For online expressions of sympathy, please visit http://www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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