Dorothy M. Wilson went home to God’s Kingdom on August 11, 2023, at the age of 84. She joins her loving husband Etsel A. Wilson in eternal life. She was also preceded in death by her mother and father, Thelma and Hayes Clemons; two sisters, Alice Morgan, Annie Clemons and her brother, Robert Earl Clemons.
Dorothy was born in Tipton County, Tennessee. The second of seven children, five girls and two boys. She was the matriarch of her family and abundantly loved, honored and protected everyone. She is survived by two brothers and two sisters, Robert (Linda) Clemons, Willie Earl (Georgia) Walker, resides in Greece, Ruby Jean (Clarence) Whitson, and Willa Dean Hammonds, all residing in Tennessee. She leaves to cherish her memory a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, extended family and friends.
Dorothy was a devoted and caring mother of two daughters, Shari (David) Lehmann, and Pamela Atwater. She was an inspiring and amazing grandmother of five grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, Michelle, Victoria, and Anthony.
Dorothy was a proud alum of Frazier High School, where she achieved one of the highest rankings of academic excellence, earning her several scholarships. She attended Wilberforce University for two years and later graduated cum laude from Central State University, Wilberforce, Ohio. She obtained a master’s degree in education from Wright State University, graduating summa cum laude.
Dorothy was a retiree of the Xenia City School System where she had a profound impact for more than 33 years, motivating, captivating, and influencing her students. Teaching was her passion and joy! She took time to help all her students, giving her talents to those who needed extra help. Those who needed to be challenged; she gave powerful opportunities for growth that fostered a greater understanding and appreciation for learning. Dorothy’s efforts and energy were a divine gift that never ceased – no matter how difficult, she was up for defeating any challenge.
Dorothy served on numerous committees during her tenure as a teacher these include, Math (15 years), Social Studies, (10 years), Reading (7 years), Materials Review (2 years), Language Arts, Chairperson/Math Specialist and Wilberforce University Student Education Advisory Committee. Dorothy received many awards: Martha Holding Jennings Scholar Award, Who’s Who Outstanding Teacher Award, Math Committee Award, The Wilberforce University Student Education Advisory Committee Award and numerous Perfect Attendance Awards. Dorothy held membership in The Ohio Education Association (OEA), The National Education Association (NEA) and the Xenia Education Association (XEA). She was a member of the Doris L. Allen Minority Caucus and an academic member of the Kappa Delta Phi Honor Society. While raising a family, Dorothy also found time to become a member of committees supporting social and civic programs in Xenia and Wilberforce communities. She was focused on giving back and had a mindset to help pave a way for everyone to succeed. She also served on the Ladies Cultural Club and the 20th Century Club, both of Xenia, Ohio.
Dorothy’s hobbies included reading, writing, gardening, canning, and traveling. She and Etsel’s enjoyment of travels took them to Europe, the Caribbean, Hawaii and all throughout the United States.
Dorothy will be laid to rest, along with her loving husband, at the Dayton National Cemetery.
Service for Dorothy Wilson will be on Friday, August 25, 2023, at United A.M.E. Church, 286 E. Church St, Xenia, Ohio. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Dr. John E. Freeman, officiating. Interment will follow at Dayton National Cemetery. Ministry of Comfort entrusted to MARLAN GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE SPRINGFIELD 823 S. Yellow Springs St. (formerly Porter- Qualls and Freeman Funeral Home). To stream the service, offer condolences to The WILSON Family, Visit www.TheChapelofPeace.com
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To the Family of Cousin Dorothy,
I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Cousin Dorothy. She was such a kind, compassionate and caring Phenomenal Woman/Servant of God! I pray that you will be Comforted and Strengthened by God’s Love and Grace. She will be really missed.
In Loving Memory of Cousin Dorothy,
Delois Sneed Bolden
To fond memories and good times. Mrs. Wilson was a nice, sweet person. Know that she will live on through her grandkids and all the students she impacted. Shari and Pam you were lucky to have her as a mom!
My dearest auntie you always showed me so much love. You will be truly missed
I love you until we meet again
Martina and I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to Dorothy Wilson’s family. Interesting how the most accomplished people most exemplify a servant’s heart. We are thinking of you all from Tennessee.
Bill Cole