Ms. Dorothy Jean Stewart

Obituary For Ms. Dorothy Jean Stewart

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. ~Psalm 91:1

Early on the morning of July 26, 2023, Dorothy Jean Stewart left her earthly vessel and entered eternal rest with our Father in heaven.

Affectionately known as “Dot” by close family and friends, Dorothy Stewart was born to Paul Napier and Minnie Lee Parker in Lake Park, GA on July 8, 1952. She was raised by her maternal grandmother, Rosa Parker in Lake Park, GA, and enjoyed the simple life of having family and friends nearby to help shape her educational and spiritual growth.

Her primary and secondary education was received in Lowndes County where she attended Westside High School and played basketball her freshman and sophomore year. After desegregation, her senior class attended Lowndes County High and she graduated there in 1970.

She decided to further her education locally, and attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) in Tifton, GA. She later took business courses at Valdosta State University.

Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it. – Proverbs 22:6

Dorothy was a proud mother and grandmother and her children, twins David Vidal and Davidae Yolanda (deceased) Stewart and MeLana Latrice Jones were her central focus. She remained a presence in each of their lives by supporting and cheering every individual endeavor and providing guidance in their spiritual walk.

Dorothy provided the same love and care as “Grandma” and “Gigi” to all her grandchildren, especially Selah, Daviona, and “adopted” grandson, Chase Litt who spent most of his young life under her care.

Family love was defined as more than biological family in Dorothy’s eyes. Friends and her children’s friends became an extension of her family. Her infectious smile and caring spirit drew so many to her.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. ~Proverbs 3:5

Dorothy’s Christian walk began at Hosanna Missionary Baptist Church in Valdosta where she was baptized at an early age. She faithfully served on the usher board, Sunday school and in the children’s department as a coordinator for youth activities and special events. She and her family moved to the Atlanta metro in 1992, and after an introduction to Saint Philip AME Church, joined with her children. She remained a faithful servant until her passing, serving as a Class Leader and supporting her children and grandchild’s activities within the church. Even if you didn’t know Dorothy by name, you would know her as the lady with outstretched arms visibly not ashamed of the gospel nor opportunity to give God all praise and honor.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord… ~Colossians 3:23

Dorothy began working at Sears while in Valdosta and transferred to an Atlanta location. A people-person, Dorothy had a passion for insurance that began early in life when she watched door-to-door salesmen pick up policy payments in her neighborhood. She realized that most of these salesmen were not honest to her community and decided to learn more about the business to protect their interest. Dorothy began working as a representative for A.L. Williams, which later became Primerica Financial Services. In over 38 years of dedicated service, she worked her way up the ranks to Regional Vice President. Her leadership and passion for people was again evident as she took pride in caring for her agents and clients who trusted her guidance with their financial decisions.

Dorothy was an organizer and event planner. She dedicated time to the Westside High School Reunion committee, taking on an officer position that managed their annual calendar of activities.

She enjoyed learning, and attending multiple Primerica conferences and conventions was a bonus for a person who loved to travel. She, MeLana, and Selah also took several family getaway trips to unwind and enjoy each other. Dorothy was an avid football fan, especially her beloved Seattle Seahawks; and when not watching them she could be found laughing and talking with friends or spending hours watching HGTV and old television shows.

Now that her time on earth has drawn to a close Dorothy has put on her long, tailored white robe and is now telling the story of how she made it over. She has been welcomed to her new eternal home by her parents, grandparents, five brothers, and daughter Davidae, who preceded her in death.

Good people will be remembered as a blessing... ~Proverbs 10:7

She leaves to cherish her memories her legacy: son, David (Sameka); daughter, MeLana; grandchildren, Selah Skye Stewart, Daviona Simori Stewart, Fletcher Lamar Hooks, Tashawn Bernard Turner, Tyrese Ra’Shawn Turner, Takeeria Tameka Gary; brother, Avalon (Shelita) Napier; and sisters Jamera (Artemio) Napier, JamiraLahn (Moeub), Annie Lois Allen, Pamela (Wendell) Lewis. Sister-in-laws LaJuana Jones, Clara Napier, Tammy Napier, Faye Black, and Doreatha Beal.

Also cherishing her love and memories are her extended family: special sons Eddie Lee Dunn, and Daniel Litt; adopted grandson Chase Kaiser Litt; Special friends Florine Edwards, Evelyn Montgomery, Cheryl Pallant; close cousins Earlie Mae Simmons, Frank Jones, Pastor Helen Parnell; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and “adopted” children who will miss her dearly.

Home going services for Ms. Dorothy Jean Stewart will be held on Saturday, August 5, at 1:00 P. M. at Morning Star Baptist Church Rev. Naamen Hooker is the pastor and Rev. Norman Edwards will be officiating. Burial will follow in the Lake Park Cemetery. Public viewing will be held on Friday, August 4 from 11:30 A. M. at til 7:00 P. M.

Blessings