Dorothy Ann Chavers

September 27, 2024

With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of our beloved matriarch Dorothy Ann Chavers, affectionately known as Dottie. She peacefully departed this world on September 22, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and strength.

Born on August 19, 1943, in Uriah, Alabama, to Maybell Hayes and Leo Gordon Melvin, Dottie was the youngest in her family. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Louise Singleton, Mary Lewis, Royce Melvin, Vester Melvin, and Daniel James (DJ) Melvin, whose bonds of love she cherished deeply.

She is also preceded in death by her loving husband, James Preston (JP) Chavers, with whom she shared 33 years of marriage. Their story was a testament to the enduring power of human connection, filled with adventures, including their 30 years in the military and living overseas in Germany. Together, they explored new cultures, and created memories which were passed down in stories to their great-grandchildren.

A mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Dottie leaves behind a loving family. Her son, Marty Preston Chavers; daughter-in-law, Mellanie Long Chavers; grandchildren, Becka Chavers Vactor married to Alex Vincent Vactor and Tyler Preston Chavers married to Desiri Dawn Chavers, and Nathaniel Mason Henschel; and great-grandchildren, August James Vactor, Violet Tillie Vactor, Winter Francesca Chavers, and Bowie Preston Chavers, will forever carry on her memory.

Dottie’s vibrant spirit was evident in her many passions. She was one of the best cooks around, a dedicated community member, a renowned cosmetologist, a teacher, a team mom, a mentor, everyone’s best friend, an active member of Pace Assembly, and a child of God. Her infectious enthusiasm and drive touched the lives of countless individuals.

She also cherished a deep friendship with William Lewis, who was a source of joy and companionship for two decades.

If Dottie were here today, she would undoubtedly say this obituary was, “Absolutely gorgeous!” Her words were a testament to her appreciation for God’s beauty, both in the world around her and in the hearts of those she loved.

A viewing will be held at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home in Atmore, Alabama on Friday, September 27, 2024, with a family viewing from 5:30 to 6:00 PM and a public viewing from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. Her funeral service will be held Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Huxford Community of Christ Church from 1:00 to 2:00 PM, in Huxford, Alabama with Pastor Steve Zepp and High Priest Beth Linam officiating which will be live streamed and followed by a late lunch reception.

Interment will follow in Huxford Community of Christ Church Cemetery.

As we bid farewell, let us celebrate her life, her love, and her enduring spirit. Dottie’s memory will be one of strength, conviction, and resilience of the human heart. Flowers are appreciated but as an alternative, feel free to make a donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation www.parkinson.org.

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