Dorothy "Dot" Smith Pettis

Dorothy Irene Pettis (née Smith), affectionately known as Dot, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2024, in Locust Grove, Georgia, at the age of 97. Dorothy's life made a significant impact on her community through her work and devotion to her faith.

Dorothy graduated from Harrison High School in 1944 and soon after began her career at the National Biscuit Company. She later joined the Clayton County School Board Food Service, where she dedicated many years before retiring in 1988. Beyond her professional life, Dorothy was a devout member of the Assembly of God Tabernacle for over 60 years, where her presence was a constant source of joy and fellowship.

Known for her vibrant personality, Dorothy cherished moments filled with laughter and fun. She was a loving wife to her late husband, John Cleveland Pettis, for 54 years and a nurturing mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was her pride and joy, and she instilled in them strong values and the importance of faith.

Dorothy's hobbies reflected her love for life; she adored angels, hummingbirds, and birds in general, enjoyed playing board games, and had a fondness for the color purple. These simple pleasures brought immense joy to her and those around her.

She is survived by her daughter, Georgia Butler (Mike), Son-in-Law, Ron Dean, grandchildren Ronnie Dean (Allison), Leslie Surowiec (Jason), Emily Butler, and John Butler (Jessica), along with her great-grandchildren Katherine Goad (Jake), Rachael Dean, Meredith Dean, Tyler Surowiec, Hensley Butler, Aubree McClellan, and Gage McClellan. Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband John Cleveland Pettis, her parents John Henry and Nora Smith, her brothers Charles and Grable Smith, and her children Terry Pettis, Brenda Pettis, and Lenora Dean.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in memory of Dorothy. Her kindness and spirited personality will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

A visitation for Dorothy will be held Monday, August 12, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Horis A. Ward - Fairview Chapel, 376 Fairview Rd, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281. A celebration of life will occur Monday, August 12, 2024 at 11:00 AM, 376 Fairview Rd, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281. An interment will occur Monday, August 12, 2024 at 1:00 PM, 376 Fairview Rd, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281.