Dolores U. “Dodie” Hanks, 62, of Watertown, New York, passed away unexpectedly on June 27, 2026, at her camp in Chaumont where she spent her summers.

Born on July 3, 1963, in Toms River, New Jersey, she was the daughter of Leroy and Dolores (Kuseck) Urban. Dodie graduated from high school in St. Francisville, Louisiana. Following graduation, she joined the US Army and was later honorably discharged.  Afterwards she worked as a security guard at a local nuclear power plant, where she met her future husband, Charles Hanks.

The couple later moved to Pulaski, New York, where Dodie was a devoted homemaker. Together, they owned and operated Salmon River Videos. In 1998, she moved to Watertown and made her home with her beloved partner, Susan Pepe.

Dodie worked as a manager for Rite Aid for several years before most recently working at Walmart, where she had been employed up until her passing.

She enjoyed camping at Pillar Point and Chaumont and was a devoted New Orleans Saints fan. Dodie also loved cooking, playing darts, and, most importantly, spending time with her family and friends.

Among her survivors are her beloved partner, Susan Pepe of Watertown; her children, James and Chelsea Hanks of Adams, Patrick Hanks of Vermont, and Jarad Hooge of Watertown; her grandson, Carson Hanks; three brothers, Billy Urban, James Urban, and Leroy Urban; three sisters, Vickie Tessin, Gilda Wells, and Dawn Liccardi; along with nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Arrangements are with Hart & Bruce Funeral Home, Watertown. In keeping with Dodie’s wishes, she was cremated and the family will hold a celebration of life on Saturday, July 11th at 1 p.m. at the Watertown American Legion 138 Sterling St., Watertown.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a date and time to be announced.

Donations in Dodie’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Online condolences may be left at www.hartandbrucefh.com.