News & Advance
Leighton B. Dodd, a former Lynchburg city councilman and mayor who just this month was recognized locally with a day named in his honor for his stance against racial inequality, died peacefully Sunday, his family said. He was 90 years old.
âMy grandfather has been my idol for as long as I can remember,â said Morgan Hollister, Doddâs granddaughter. âHe was a humble, selfless, kind, genuine man who touched each and every individual he ever came in contact with.â
Born in Charlotte County, Dodd was one of 12 children. He was a veteran of the Korean War who joined the U.S. Army at age 17 and was awarded two Purple Hearts during his time in service. He attended Lynchburg College after returning from the war, graduating in 1956. Dodd was elected to city council in 1970 and served as mayor of Lynchburg from 1972 to 1976.