Dorothy Arlene Hillson

Dorothy will be cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, February 8, 2026 at 12:30 pm at Community of Christ Church, 104 Wilmoth Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50014.

Dottie, as she was known to her friends, was born to William and Evelyn Dobson at Ellenboro, Wisconsin. Both her parents died when she was a young child. She was raised by foster parents. Dottie was next to the youngest of eight children. All were raised in different homes. She graduated from high school in Lancaster, Wisconsin. Dottie began working at an early age and financed her own way through college. She completed a two-year degree from Graceland University and a bachelor’s degree from Drake University.

Dottie taught elementary education in Pleasantville, Ames, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She enjoyed teaching and was loved by children. Dottie was a kind gracious woman who was devoted to her husband and children. Dottie was a lifelong member of the Community of Christ. She had many gifts and talents and enjoyed country music and writing poetry.

Dottie married Merle Hillson on August 17, 1958, at Lancaster, Wisconsin. She is survived by her beloved husband; her daughter, Deborah Nelson (Gary) of Ames, and son, Mark (Gina) of Rockwell, NC. Also surviving are six grandchildren: Heath, Cole, Savannah, and Kaylee Nelson, Michael, and Matthew Hillson; 18 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. In addition, she is also survived by her sister: Carol Jeidy of Fennimore, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the family and they will be given to a charity of their choosing at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be left at www.stevensmemorialchapel.com for the Hillson family.