Dorothy S. Piner

Dorothy S. Piner, age 90, after a life lived in daily amazement of God’s goodness, was released from this world, and, we believe, saw her Creator and Savior face to face on July 27, 2021. She was the daughter of Lee and Zula Smith, born September 14,1930 in Austin, Texas. She joined two brothers she dearly loved, Arthur (Alvin) and Kenny, both also deceased.

She met and married her husband, Dick H. Piner, Jr. in 1954. Then moved to New Orleans (Algiers) where they have resided for their entire married life of 67 years. Dorothy’s love for Dick never ceased, but always increased. She was a strong woman that did all she could to enable Dick to be successful in his work and life. Watching them dance together always showed how much they truly enjoyed and cherished each other.

They raised 5 daughters: Susan Van Alsburg (Scott), Laura Steffeck (Mike), Jenny Simon (Joe), Patty McCarty (Rick), and Marion Smith (Steve). Dorothy created a wonderful home for her family. All the daughters, many friends and guests were greatly influenced by her creativity, hospitality and delicious meals! Because she valued family, her daughters do too. She has left behind 16 well-loved grandchildren, and 26 great grandchildren. All will miss her big smile, warm greetings and her joy of celebrating the things of life.

Dorothy, through her love for Christ, served Him in her home by modeling to all a life devoted to Him, and in the New Orleans area by promoting and supporting ministries that point people to Christ. She and Dick were founding members of Woodland Presbyterian Church in Algiers. In 65 years as a member there, she took on many tasks and loved the people of Woodland well. She encouraged the ministry of Young Life to establish itself on the Westbank in the 70’s. Christian Women’s Club and Bible Study Fellowship were also established in our area with her encouragement and service. Alongside her husband Dick, Dorothy was deeply involved with Louisiana Family Forum, Young Life, The Salvation Army, the YMCA, and New Orleans Mission.

A real joy for Dorothy came in being a part of Big Tree Day Camp, first as Craft Director in the 60’s, and then, as a great gift from God, became the owner and Director of the Camp. Hundreds of elementary-aged kids learned to have good old fashioned fun while gaining skills in swimming, horseback riding and crafts. So many children were positively influenced by her handpicked, quality counselors. Big Tree has been Dick and Dot’s home in Algiers since 1972. It is another special place that Dick and Dot created that has served our greater community in multiple ways.

Many have reached out since her passing, and the family is so encouraged that she indeed had a life well-lived. You have shared that she showed you how to hold fast to faith when you live a long life. “Her life helped mold and shape yours”. “She laughed easily yet spoke her peace”.” She was a stalwart disciple of the Lord”, and that the “fruits of her faith are all around us as her legacy testifies”. She was tireless in life, and “now her earthly body can finally rest”. Oh, the hope there is in Christ! His grace abounded to Dorothy.

The memorial service for Dorothy will be at Woodland Church, 5824 Berkley Dr., New Orleans, LA, 70131, at 2:00 on August 12, 2021. There will be a reception following the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Woodland Church, Young Life or New Orleans Mission.