Charlotte Finlay

Charlotte Williams Finlay, 73, lost her valiant and determined fight against cancer on October 6, 2012. Born in Nacogdoches, Texas, June 2, 1939 to Charles and Mintie Williams, she grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, a gregarious and charming combination of genteel southern lady and the pioneer spirit of Texas oil fields. Early on, her ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds set her on the path of community service and exciting adventures around the world. As a staunch sixth generation Texan, (even though she married a Bostonian,) she was a contributing member of the Daughters of the American

Revolution, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and served as the Dallas President of the Colonial Dames of America. Her passion and generosity for volunteering for various charitable organizations was determined and endless. A member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, Charlotte served on the SMU Kappa Chapter House Board and as President of the Dallas Kappa Alumnae Association. While a member of the Junior League of Dallas, she started the Senior Citizens Craft Fair. She also was Vice President of the Dallas Woman’s Club, President of the Women of Highland Park United Methodist Church, and President of The Lakeside Browning Club. An avid gardener, she served on the boards of the major garden organizations, including as President of the Junior League Garden Club, President of the Dallas Garden Club, and President of the Founders Garden Club. Charlotte was a loving and staunch supporter of her family and many dear friends. She was a talented, creative social butterfly who could set a beautiful table and throw a fabulous party. She was a world traveler with her husband of 50

years and had worldwide friends, including many fellow members of the Confrerie des Chevaliers du Tastevin. Once you were Charlotte’s friend, she kept in touch, made sure you were on her radar. She wove all those connections together into the network of support and love we celebrate today. Charlotte is survived by her husband, Richard R. Finlay; Daughter, Laura

Finlay Smith; twin sons, Richard C. Finlay and Charles A. Finlay, and his wife, Melinda; her grandchildren who called her "Dots" - Emma Smith, Caroline and Claire Finlay; Collin and Ryan Finlay and many caring cousins and friends. She was

preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Laura Blount Goodrich. Her memorial service will be held at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church on Saturday, October 20, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., with a reception to follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Belsterling Foundation of the Dallas Garden Club, 4340 Beverly Drive, Dallas, TX 75205.