Dorothy Helen Zimmerman Lord

Dot was born October 29, 1919 in Utica, NY. She was the daughter of the late Frederick Zimmerman and Christina Buttenschoen Zimmerman. She lived in Utica until her family moved to the Bridgeport, CT area where she lived until adulthood. Dot became an accountant for General Electric Co. In the early 50’s she was transferred by GE to Schenectady, NY where she met her husband, Fred. They recently celebrated 59 years of marriage.

Dot spent her life enriching the lives of all around her. Her kindred spirit and genuine loving smile enlightened and inspired not only her family and friends, but all who encountered her. She was passionate about being involved in all aspects of her friends’ and family’s events. Dot listened tirelessly to details of everyone’s weddings, baby births, school plans, favorite vacations and faith journeys. No detail was too small to deter her interest. She was famous for organizing and hosting many dinner parties and special events.

Dot was also heavily involved in her community. Among her many volunteer efforts was the Red Cross where she worked at bloodmobiles and rocked and cared for babies at Bridgeport Hospital and Carolinas Medical Center. In 2010, she received a volunteer service award for her work at Carolinas Medical Center. During her remarkable life, she also served on the boards of the Trumbull Congregational Church, Nichols Improvement Association and General Federation of Women’s Clubs. Dot was co-president of the Trumbull Community League and chairwoman of the annual Whale of a Sale benefiting the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital. She was a member of the Network of Executive Women, Mecklenburg Republican Women, University City Women’s Club, Charlotte Woman’s Club, Red Hat Society, League of Women Voters, Wilson Club and actively participated at her church, University City United Methodist. To say that Dot had an effect on the world is an understatement; she definitely made it a better place.

In addition to her husband, Dot is survived by children, Bradford Lord (daughter in-law, Cheryl) of Mooresville and Alison Lord of Matthews; a brother, Frederick Zimmerman (sister in-law, Corrine) of Burlington, Vermont; two grandchildren, Jessy Lord and Kyle Lord; and several nieces and nephews, along with their families. In addition to her parents, Dot was preceded in death by a sister, Edna Zimmerman and a brother, Richard Zimmerman.

The service to celebrate the life of Dorothy Zimmerman Lord will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, November 16th at University City United Methodist Church, 3835 West W.T. Harris Blvd., with Reverend Dr. F. Ron Smith officiating. The family will receive friends 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Saturday at the church. Burial will be at a later date in Websterville, Vermont.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Crisis Assistance Ministry of Mecklenburg County (www.crisisassistance.org, 704-371-3001).

Arrangements by McEwen Funeral Service - Derita Chapel, 6300 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, NC 28262 (704-596-3291). Condolences may be offered at www.mcewenderitachapel.com.