Obituary of Dorothy Peckham

Dorothy "Dodie" Ann (Reynolds) Peckham passed peacefully on Monday, January 18, 2016 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility in Montour Falls, NY after a courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease. Dodie was born in Costa Rica on January 16, 1936 to Theodore and Lois (Scroggins) Reynolds, where her father was involved in various plantation farming ventures. At 11 years of age her father brought the family stateside to Tillamook, Oregon. After graduating from Tillamook High School in 1953, she attended Oregon State College, graduating with a BS in Elementary Education. While at college, she met and married Willis "Bill" Peckham, both embarking on their teaching careers in the early years of their marriage. Dodie left teaching to raise her children, and support Bill's career as a Superintendent of Schools, and the many moves that his job demanded. She later returned to work as a substitute teacher, cashier, and later as a bookstore clerk - where she indulged her voracious reading habit. Upon retirement, Dodie and Bill relocated to the Fingerlakes Region to be closer to family and realize their dream of owning a farm. Dodie will be fondly remembered by the love of her family, and her keen wit. Dodie is predeceased by her parents, her husband Bill, and beloved daughter Julie. She is survived by daughter Gloria Peckham of Ithaca, NY, sons Allen (Emily) Peckham of Odessa, NY and Ivan Peckham of Sandy, Oregon, grandchildren Tom and Rosemary Peckham, both of Odessa, NY, and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by a sister, Lois "Chita" Wright and brother, Theodore "Ted" Reynolds, Jr. Many of Dodie's friends remained steadfast penpals throughout the years, for which her family is forever grateful. Dodie's family would like to thank the staff of Seneca Skilled Nursing Facility for their tender care and dedication to her comfort, as well as the volunteers who supported her through her illness. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Vedder and Scott Funeral Home and will be made at the convenience of the family. Contributions in Dodie's honor can be made to Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, Outdoor Spaces Fund; Schuyler Hospital Foundation, 220 Steuben St. Montour Falls, NY 14865.