Dorothy Lee Ashley Whitfield gained her heavenly wings on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at MS Care Center in Raleigh, MS. She was born on January 5, 1931, in Smith County to Ross Butler and Jewel Ashley Dickerson Butler.
She was married to the love of her life, Curtis L. Whitfield, for over sixty-four years. After his retirement, they bought a camper and traveled to many states and all over the country. One of their favorite places to visit was the Great Smoky Mountains during the changing of the leaves and they almost bought a house there. She enjoyed cooking for her family and their get-togethers. She also enjoyed sewing and working in their yard with all the beautiful flowers, but her favorite was gladiolus. Being with her grandchildren and many great-grandchildren brought her tremendous joy. Sitting on the front porch with pawpaw drinking their morning coffee will always be one of the grandchildren’s greatest memories of the two together. Every chance Curtis could, he brought his sweetheart flowers, and on Friday, he took her gladiolus.
She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Mendenhall, MS.
Dorothy is survived by her devoted husband, Curtis Whitfield; son, Curtis Todd Whitfield; daughter, Debbie Laird (Robert); grandchildren, Adam Laird, April Laird, Dillon Whitfield, Christopher Whitfield, Ashley Whitfield, and seven great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ross and Jewel Butler; sisters, Mary Lemon and Birtie Mae Kennedy; and brothers, J.D. Butler, Billy Butler, and Charles Butler.
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Tutor Funeral Home in Mendenhall, MS, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. The service will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Dr. Jim Futrell officiating. Interment will follow at D’Lo Cemetery.