Dolores J. "Dodie" Hyde

Dolores J. "Dodie" Hyde, 90, of Watertown, New York, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2025, at Samaritan Medical Center.

She was born on September 14, 1935, in Watertown, the daughter of Maurice and Gertrude Baker Helmer Sr. Dodie graduated from Watertown High School and later married Walter Hyde. The couple made their home in Watertown, where they raised their family.

A devoted homemaker for much of her life, Dodie also worked for the Watertown City School District once her children were older. She served the district in several roles, including as a crossing guard and as a lunch monitor in the school cafeteria. Known for her nurturing spirit and dedication, she was especially proud of her role as a grandmother — her grandchildren and great grandchildren were truly the center of her world.

Surviving are her four children: Mark Hyde of Watertown, NY,Cheryl Mahan of Watertown, NY, Dawn Gerstenschlager of Glen Park, NY and Crystal (Vincent) Nelson of Watertown, NY.

She is also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two sisters, Bonnie Freeman of North Carolina and Flora Corey of Watertown, NY; and many nieces and nephews.

Dodie was predeceased by her parents; her beloved, husband, Walter Hyde, her daughter, Debra Ann Hyde, a grandson, Destin Nelson; a great granddaughter, Brinley Gerstenschlager, son-in-law, Joseph Gerstenschlager; her sister, Jeanette Baughman and two brothers, Maurice Helmer Jr. and Donald Helmer.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 2nd from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Hart & Bruce Funeral Home, located at 117 N. Massey Street, Watertown. A funeral service will immediately follow at 7:00 PM. 

A prayer service will be said at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 3rd at the funeral home, followed by burial in Brookside Cemetery.

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

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