Truly a product of “The Greatest Generation,” Dot typified this era with her loyal love of family, her resiliency and strength, her unyielding generosity to others, and her keen sense of humor. She was born and raised in Memphis, TN, spending the entirety of her childhood in a home her father and grandfather built with their own hands. Extended family was close by, and with a household of siblings, Dot grew up treasuring the traditions and experiences her family fostered. Her mind was a steel trap, and she could recount the names of everyone present, the meals they enjoyed, and some of the nuanced activities at countless gatherings that made her growing up years so special.
Given her closeness to family, it should come as no surprise that a friend of her older sister, Vernon Whitman, would become a prominent figure in her adolescence. Dot often shared with affection how Vernon would always show up at the right place and right time to be with her – most notably, she loved the green orchid he brought her on their first date. Dot and Vernon were married on July 19, 1947, after a courtship they carried through Vernon’s naval service in World War II. Their early married days had them off on great adventure: living in San Francisco and eventually Guam, before returning to their hometown of Memphis. It was here in Memphis that they started a family of their own – daughter Patricia Ann, and twin sons Terry Lee and Gerry Wayne. Eventually, the family would relocate to Atlanta, GA through Vernon’s career with Delta Airlines. Despite the new home base for the Whitman family, it did not stop Dot’s love for gathering her family and entertaining those she loved dearly with a fabulous meal. The move to Atlanta brought many new friends to the Whitman family, many of whom felt like extensions of their own family. At the center of any great gathering was Dot – her fabulous sense of humor and culinary passions brought such warmth to her favorite time-honored traditions. She also put her heart and soul into becoming a grandmother to Lauren and Jackie, and eventually a great grandmother to Clare, Whit, and Lucy – investing deeply in each of their lives. To them, she was simply their “P.”
Dot’s family is thankful that she is at peace, but she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Vernon, and her precious daughter, Patty. She also cherished the memory of her parents, Henry and Christine, as well as her siblings who went before her: Taleeta Lawrence, Henry Leonard, Jr., Gene Cross, Harold Edward, and Jane Marie. She is survived by her sons Terry (Amy) and Gerry Whitman; son-in-law Bob Fryer; granddaughters Lauren (Scott) Tucker and Jackie (Huston) Hatch; great-grandchildren Clare and Whit Tucker and Lucy Hatch; as well as extended relatives and friends. The family also wishes to extend special appreciation to her faithful caregivers, Dina Connett, Luda Pikhunyk, and Sarah Wanjira. The family will hold a private service to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.
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