Mother Dorothy M. Hairston

Obituary For Mother Dorothy M. Hairston

Dorothy Mae Hairston, 96, of Collinsville, Virginia, transitioned from earth to glory, surrounded by loved ones, on May 9, 2025, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

Born to the late George and Lucy Wells, she was preceded in death by James Manns and Oscar Hairston; three brothers, Phil, John Henry, and Robert Wells; three sisters, Hazel Wells, Queen Wells, and Deloise Joyce; one son, James Leon Manns; and one grandson, ArRaheem Manns.

Affectionately known as Mother Dorothy, she was a pillar of faith and love in her community. A faithful member of New Light Holiness Church for over 40 years, she served in numerous roles including choir member, the mother’s board, hospitality, church historian, and more. She later served faithfully as the church mother at Faith Tabernacle Holiness Church, where she was instrumental in its founding under the leadership of Bishop Loretta Dillard.

Mother Hairston loved the Lord deeply and lived her life in devotion to Him. She graciously opened her home to pastors and church leaders, always considering it her duty and honor to serve others. Her love for the house of God was evident in her tireless dedication to its upkeep and spirit. She had a gift for decorating and was often called upon by neighbors to beautify their homes—a service she gladly rendered with joy and humility.

Her missionary spirit knew no bounds. Every opportunity she had, she shared the love of God and sought to bring others into the kingdom of heaven. Even in times of illness, she was always seeking ways to serve.

Mother Hairston’s hobbies included reading the Bible, coloring, solving puzzles, crocheting, and creating designs with her blocks. She also enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune, Little House on the Prairie, and YouTube church services. For her, church was not just a place of worship—it was a way of life.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Sheila Carter of Collinsville, VA; George (Rosa) Manns of Anniston, AL; Everett (Lori) Manns of Oxford, AL; and Sherman (Lisa) Manns of Bassett, VA. She is also survived by one sister, Grace Ann Ferguson of Collinsville, VA; one brother, Marshall (Alberta) Wells; ten grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; her adoptive family, the Kalfe family; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and beloved friends.

Mother Dorothy Mae Hairston truly lived a life that honored God. Her unwavering faith, generous spirit, and loving heart will continue to inspire all who knew her.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of the Lord and rest.”

A visitation service will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 11:30 a.m. with the funeral service at 12 noon at Faith Tabernacle Holiness Church, 370 Wells Hollow Rd., Bassett, VA with Bishop Loretta Dillard, Eulogist. Interment will follow at Carver Memorial Gardens 869 Parkway Dr., Martinsville, VA.

A public viewing will convene on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Hairston Funeral Home, 301 Fayette St., Martinsville between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. The family will be present during this time. Other times, the family will receive friends at the home, 60 Charles St., Apt. 12, Collinsville, VA between the hours of 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. daily. Live streaming of the funeral service will be available at Hairston Funeral Home live via Facebook.

Courteous, efficient, and dependable service provided by Hairston Funeral Home.

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