Dorothy Mae Smith

Dorothy Mae Fitzgerald Hill Smith (Dot) passed away on April 08, 2026. She was born on July 02, 1928, in Hudson, Florida to Irene Viola Littell Fitzgerald and Edwin Henry Fitzgerald. She has been a resident of Hernando County for 77 years and member of the Faith Presbyterian Church of Brooksville.

Dot worked at Weeki Wachee Springs and was chosen to be one of the original mermaids to swim 2 times a day, 7 days a week; she received $125.00 monthly plus housing. They also gave shows on the beach in water tanks. Dot was an instructor for new mermaids, worked in the gift shop and tied bumper stickers on the bumpers of cars for advertising. Dot continued bringing smiles to one and all entertaining as a clown in the Clover Leaf Community for many years.

Today we are reminded of the importance of Mothers, Grandmothers and Great Grandmothers, friends, family and all the irreplaceable memories she contributed to each of our lives.

Dot was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph C. Smith, of 30 years and daughters, Linda Hill Mattocks (Don) of New Bern, NC; Vee Lynn Gibson (Clay) Graham, FL; and grandsons, Ken Gibson of Wesley Chapel, FL; Van Gibson of Tampa, FL.

Dot is survived by her daughters, Beverly Hill Smith (Dennis); Sharon Smith Crews (Rusty). Sons, Joseph Smith Jr. and Theodore Smith. Grandchildren, Douglas Smith (Suzanne); Brian Smith (Amy); Candice Simmons (Adam); Don Gibson; Josh Crews (Joyce); Jessie Crews (Gwen); along with 12 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. She lived to see (2) 5 generations.

No service has been scheduled at this time. A celebration of life to be scheduled.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at Dorothy Smith Obituary - Brooksville, FL

Donations in her memory can be made to:

HPH Hospice

Chapters Health Organization

12470 Telecom Drive Suite 301

Temple Terrace, FL 33637