Dorothy Mae Carroll

Dorothy Mae Lunsford Carroll, age 99, was born on 12/25/1926 in Hartford, Tennessee, and peacefully completed her nearly century long journey on 1/13/2026 in Allentown, Pennsylvania. After her husband passed, she moved to Pennsylvania to live with her daughter Libby and son in law Carl — a new chapter where she traded the Tennessee Waltz for the Pennsylvania Polka.

Dorothy grew up in a big, loving family as the seventh of eight children, guided by the steady resilience of her mother after her father’s passing in 1931. Those early, challenging years helped shape the strength and determination that stayed with her throughout her nearly century long life. She embraced many roles with grace — daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother — each one adding another layer to the legacy she leaves behind.

Even in difficult times, Dorothy carried an upbeat, hopeful spirit. At Carter High School, she proudly played on one of the school’s first women’s basketball teams, and she later expressed her creativity through floral design, earning countless ribbons for her beautiful arrangements. Her positivity, talent, and quiet perseverance touched everyone who knew her.

As the gracious First Lady to Colonel George F. Carroll, she was a natural hostess, effortlessly orchestrating elegant dinners for dozens of military guests. Her life was one of devoted support, accompanying her husband across the U.S. and Germany, before they retired to Seymour, TN, where their shared passion for faith, Gideons and Women’s Auxiliary, Valley Grove Baptist Church, and deep commitment to family continued to flourish.

Affectionately known as Dottie, she refused to let age define her and embraced the title 'Momma Dot' upon becoming a grandmother—a name that soon became synonymous with love. Her legacy lives on through her son, Ron Carroll and her daughter, Libby Gatlin who blessed her with 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Those who knew her understand when folks say “Everybody loves Dottie”.

She will be missed.

There will be farewell acknowledgments at the graveside on

Sat Jan 24, 1:00 pm.

Berry Highland South

9010 Simpson Rd, Knoxville, TN.