DEXTER, NY — John David Doolittle, 80, Dexter, and retired City of Watertown Police Department captain, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2020, at his home with his family at his bedside.
Graveside services are 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2020, in Dexter Cemetery with Pastor Mahlon Smith from the New Hope Baptist Church officiating.
Family and friends may call 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Reed & Benoit Funeral Home, Watertown social distancing and facial covering requirements in effect.
Born Aug. 13, 1939, in Watertown, a son to Floyd G. and Fola Croissant Doolittle, he was a graduate of Watertown High School.
John married Cynthia Heise on June 18, 1966.
John joined the City of Watertown Police Department in November 1966, retiring in July of 1995, rising to the rank of captain.
He was an active member in his church, the New Hope Baptist Church until becoming ill. He was a member of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship and a member of Peace Officers for Christ.
John is survived by his wife, Cynthia, his son Jeffrey F. (Deniz S.); two daughters Jo-Cinda R. (William) Evans and Lydia J. Doolittle; his grandchildren, Mikala R. Evans, John D. (Leah) Evans, Joseph J. Doolittle, Jessica J. (Brandin) Maier, Joshua J. and Jeffrey J. Doolittle; great grandchildren Maxon H. Evans, Carter M. Evans and Sofia M.N. Maier; a sister, Peggy J. (John) Meyer; several nieces; and his dog Annie.
John was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Donald F. Doolittle.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 1398 Gotham St., Watertown, NY 13601.
