Dorothy was born in Yukon, Oklahoma, on April 27, 1935. She was raised during the Great Depression, an experience that helped shape the strength, compassion, and resilience she carried throughout her life. In 1949, Dorothy married John McIntire, and in 1950 they moved to Amarillo, where they began building their life and raising their family. Together, they had four children: Johna, Paula, Robert, and James “Jimmy.” Dorothy devoted much of her life to caring for her family. She was primarily a stay-at-home mother and also cared for children in her home as a babysitter. She later worked at Save-A-Stop. Dorothy eventually moved to North Carolina, where she found an amazing church community in Fayetteville. Her faith and her love for others became an important part of her life. She was deeply involved in her church’s card ministry, sending cards of encouragement, birthday wishes, sympathy, and love to those who needed a reminder that someone cared. When Dorothy returned to Amarillo, she continued that ministry. Her circle of care extended far beyond her church family, as she faithfully reached out to anyone who could use a little encouragement. Dorothy’s September cards had already been prepared before her passing, and her daughter mailed them out, allowing Dorothy’s ministry of kindness to continue even after she was gone. Dorothy was a loving mother, foster mother, and spiritual mother to many. She had a generous heart and a gift for making people feel remembered and loved. She was also an avid supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project, a cause that was close to her heart.
Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Paula Steele; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; her foster children; and many nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John McIntire, who passed away on March 28, 1997; her daughter, Johna Zint (McIntire), who passed away on February 20, 2007; and her son, James “Jimmy” McIntire, who passed away on August 4, 2016.
Dorothy leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, encouragement, and love. Her life touched countless people, and the cards she so faithfully sent were more than paper and words—they were small reminders that people mattered and were not forgotten. Her ministry of kindness will continue in the hearts of those she loved.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dorothy’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project.
