A Woman of Dove's History

March is Women’s History Month and during this month I want to acknowledge a woman who assisted Ray Batman in molding Dove, Inc. Not only was she a founder and volunteer, but her passion, dedication, and drive were so vital to building the stellar foundation that the organization stands on today. She may have been tiny in stature, but her presence was vast.

She was eventually hired as the Program Director in 1974 and remained an active and avid supporter of Dove after retirement and up until her passing in 2014. Her “never take no for an answer” attitude assisted with building collaborations that are still matched today.

She was extremely instrumental in the organization of a multitude of community-related programs throughout the city of Decatur. This includes the Nationally Renowned Mother-to-Mother program, a programming concept that has been widely adopted across the country.

Sue’s presence still shines through those of us who have come along beside her. Her commitment to resolving the needs of the community continues to burn bright and continues to be passed along to those who have come after her. She is Dove’s history and will forever be remembered as “Mother Dove”. So, during this Women’s History Month, I want to express my gratitude to Marilyn Rose “Susie” Simcox.

Darsonya Switzer, CEO

Sue at the Dean Simcox Conference Room Dedication

Sue and Mrs. Cobb, they were Mother to Mother pairs for life

Susie in the early days, helping to get a child to Dove's preschool

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