My Mother

My Mother, known for her unwavering love and profound strength, passed away peacefully at her home on May 23, 2026, after a courageous battle with illness. Born on August 22, 1931, in the charming town of Lancaster, South Carolina, she was the beloved daughter of the courageous and selfless John Henry Harris and the beautiful biblical teacher Carrie Bell (McDowell) Harris. On February 14, 1953, in the bustling heart of New York City, she married the love of her life, Mr. Forrest J. Dobson Sr. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, welcoming six wonderful children into their family. She is predeceased by her cherished husband, Forrest James Dobson Sr., her beloved children, Mrs. Jacqueline L. (Dobson) Fields, Mr. Forrest J. Dobson Jr., and Mrs. Rachel A. (Dobson) Harland, as well as her dear sister, Mrs. Stella Pellam. My Mother is survived by a family who loved her deeply: daughters Ms. Geraldine Dobson, Mrs. Adaline (William) Morrison, Ms. Michelle Dobson, Mrs. Audrey (Jake) Harris, and son Mr. Leonard Fields Sr. She was also a mother figure to her nephew/son, Bishop Dr. Michael (Jamie) Perkins. Her nieces, Durhilda Pellam, Elnora Pellam, and Amarian Pellam, and nephew, Heyward (Cheryl) Pellam Jr., cherished her as a loving aunt. Her legacy lives on through her attentive and loving grandchildren, including her main caretaker, Mrs. Natasha (Kenneth) Lawrence, Mr. Andre (Dobson) Mott, Mr. Leonard Fields Jr., Ms. Alia Fields, Ms. Keirria Morrison, Mr. Charles Morrison, and Ms. I'keshia Fields. She adored her 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, including Nathaniel, Cambridge Jr., Zion, Andre Jr., Brielle, Michael 3rd, Leonard 3rd, and Marcellus, who brought immense joy to her life. An alumna of Barr Street High in Lancaster, South Carolina, she furthered her education at Friendship Junior College and Jefferson Beauty School. Her career was marked by a deep commitment to the well-being of others; she dedicated ten years to the Children's Hospital Pediatric before offering her compassionate care at the Buffalo Psychiatric Center until her retirement in 1996. My Mother lived by the guiding principle, "If I can do anything to help anybody as I go through this life, I know my walk of life has been in vain." This profound philosophy shaped her life and inspired all who knew her. Her kindness and selflessness touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on her community and family. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice for their attentive care and support during her final days. My Mother's life was a testament to love, resilience, and compassion, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will be cherished forever, and her spirit will continue to inspire us every day.