Edith Helen (Dockery) Hendricks-a beloved mother, adoring granny and treasured friend, passed away on May 7, 2026 at Vancrest of Hicksville surrounded by her loving family. She was born March 12, 1946 in Kingsport, Tennessee to Charlie Cowden & Martha (Castle) Dockery. Edith grew up in Nickelsville, VA and graduated from Nickelsville High School in 1965.

Over her lifetime, Edith dedicated herself to hard work and service to others. She worked for 10 years at Johns-Manville, spent 24 years caring for others at various nursing homes in Defiance, and later worked in the GM cafeteria. While at GM, Edith became well known for her spirited personality and could often be heard singing “Happy Birthday” to employees-whether they liked it or not-bringing smiles and laughter to many. Her laugh-her unforgettable, cackling laugh-was one of a kind. If Edith was nearby, you knew it, and that sound became something everyone who loved her will miss dearly. She was also known for her mischievous spirit. With the help of her sister Nancy and nieces, Oline and Barb, it wasn’t uncommon to arrive at a family reunion only to discover items from your own home up for auction-“borrowed” by them for the occasion. This was the heart of who she was.

Edith loved fiercely and was deeply devoted to those she cared about. She adored her grandchildren & great-grandchlldren, each of whom was her pride and joy. From attending school functions to stepping in to babysit at a moment’s notice, she was always there, offering her time, love, and unwavering support. Family was her greatest joy, and her presence made everyone feel cared for and cherished.

Edith is survived by her children, Nancy (Scott) Kiessling, James (Ruby) Schindler and daughter-in-law, Jeanetta Schindler. Her grandchildren: Daykota (Michael) Shook, Cory Schindler, Casey Schindler, Amber (Austin Murphy), Kendall Kiessling, James Dean Schindler, Korben Kiessling and her sister, Peggy (Dockery) LeMaster. She has 8 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and friends that adored her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Tony Schindler, her brothers, Jack, Cline, Clay, BC, Bernard, Wallace, Dale and Wayne Dockery and sister, Nancy (Dockery) Salyers.

A mother’s love is the first home we ever know - and even when she’s gone, her warmth still lives in every corner of our hearts.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026 from 3-6 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson-Roessner Chapel (1753 S. Clinton Street) in Defiance. A Memorial Service will follow at 6:00 pm at the funeral home, with Pastor Marv Dockery officiating.

Memorial donations may be directed to a charity of the donor's choice.