William "Bill" Phillips Dodds, 62, Rogersville, passed away at 7:49 a.m. Friday, March 6, 2009 after being diagnosed with lung cancer on January 28, 2009. Bill was born February 14, 1947 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to William Leo Dodds and Ruth Alexander Dodds. He grew up and attended school in Branson, graduating from high school in 1965, where he excelled in football, basketball and track. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam war, attaining the rank of Sergeant. After being discharged, Bill returned to Springfield, where he married Linda Witherspoon on November 7, 1970. He attended Southwest Missouri State and graduated with honors in 1974. In 1980, Bill and Linda established Town and Country Flowers and Collectibles, which they have owned and operated since. Bill was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Linda; a sister, Sandy Dareing, Brownwood, Texas; a brother, Tom Dodds and his wife, Kathy, Branson; his mother-in-law, Katie Witherspoon; brother-in-law, John Witherspoon and his wife, Fran; his sister-in-law, Karen Witherspoon; family friend, Larry Keller, all of Springfield; three nephews and one niece; and his cat, Cole. The family would like to extend a special thanks to our family and dear friends who worked to keep the business open to enable Bill and Linda to be together for the last six weeks. Also to Marc and Mary Lou Wittmer for their friendship and support. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 11, 2009 in Missouri Veterans Cemetery under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. No visitation is planned, however friends may call after 1:00 p.m. Tuesday in the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Southwest Missouri Humane Society, 3161 West Norton Road, Springfield, MO 65803.