Dortha "Dot" Ellis

Dortha Mae “Dot” Ellis, age 90, passed away on January 5, 2023 in D’Iberville, Mississippi. Dot lived a full and rich life. Dot loved people and people loved Dot. She was born at home in North Biloxi, MS on May 6, 1932. She participated actively in D’Iberville schools as a basketball player, drum majorette and was the Valedictorian of her senior class.

She married the love of her life Robert “Bob” Ellis in 1951 and they had four children. They lived in Japan, Germany, Kansas, and Las Vegas with the Air Force before returning home to D’Iberville in 1969.

She had a strong faith and was a leader in the Methodist church. She helped start seven congregations and was chairperson over two Mississippi Annual Conferences. Children were her true passion, and she was a part of starting three childcare centers.

She and Bob enjoyed their retirement, exploring the US, Europe, and Central and South America, often joined by their family and friends. She was known for welcoming people to her dinner table, sharing stories, mentoring, counseling and loving people generously.

Dot was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Lottie Parker; brothers, Earl, Lloyd, Donald, and Jesse Lee Parker; sisters, Gertie Seymour and Marlene Parker; and son, Larry Ellis.

She is survived by her loving husband of over 71 years, Bob Ellis, her children, Ron (Lisa Sanders), Linda Darphin (Earl), and Scott; grandchildren, Joey, Jeremy (Bridget), Robby (Chelse), Hannah Darphin-Foster (Kyle), Hallie Brand (Gus), Parker; and great-grandchildren, Ace Ellis, Max Ellis, and Murphy Brand, as well as several nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

Special thanks to niece Debbie Parker, caregivers Connie and Beth, and the caring hospice staff who walked beside us as we cared for Dot in her last months.

Services will be held at Heritage United Methodist Church, D’Iberville on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. Visitation will be at 12:00 p.m., and the funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at the Biloxi National Cemetery.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, West Jackson County served the family.

An online obituary may be viewed and condolences shared at www.RiemannFamily.com

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