Dorothy Jessup Hillstrom

Dot was preceded in death by her parents Henry White Jessup and Ethyl Spivey Jessup, her husband Bill Hillstrom, son Gary Shell, and brother Bill Jessup.

Survivors include her sister Mary Anna Williams of Carlsbad, Ca., son, Deaver Thomas Shell and wife Betsy Smith, son Bruce Shell and wife Cindy. She is blessed with five grandchildren and three great grandchildren by her first husband Deaver Shell, deceased, and numerous nieces and nephews. Dot is also blessed with her extended family, daughters Lynda Thum and husband Robert, Tricia Hillstrom and husband Doug, Karen Jennings and husband Jeff, Marsha Anderson, Kim Kitchin, son, Dan Hillstrom and wife Lynn, 11 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

Dot was born August 31, 1923 on a farm in Woodland, N.C. Her humble caring way of treating others touched many lives. No one ever left hungry that passed through her door. She knew everyone’s favorite food and quietly provided it on your visit. Her love was also expressed in the cakes, pies, and clothes she made for others.

Her quiet respectful way serves as a role model for us all. She was the last one to speak but with great wisdom and caring in its delivery. In contrast to this life long grace was a sparkle in her eye for jokes, some which couldn’t be shared with everyone, always with respect for others.

Her love of fishing was shared with her family. She was a quiet, loving mother to all who knew her. The loss of her husband Bill and her son Gary, while tremendous did not diminish her ability to provide love to us all. She gathered the characters that make a family and with grace made us better with her love.

Visitation will be held from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Monday July 30 at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 300 St. Mary’s Street, Raleigh, N.C. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 31 at 11:00 a.m. at Westover United Methodist Church, 300 Powell Drive, Raleigh, N.C.

The family is forever grateful to friend and caregiver Donna Cramer. Her love and care blessed us all.

Memorials may be made to Westover United Methodist Church and Hospice of Wake County, 250 Hospice circle, Raleigh, N.C. 27607.