Dorothy “Dot” Cavalier, a woman of faith and courage, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, in Baton Rouge after a short illness at the age of 83. She was born in Hamburg, Mississippi, to Maurice and George Sims.
Dot completed her education at Natchez High School, followed by cosmetology school, becoming a beautician before relocating to Baton Rouge. There, she met Al Burkhalter at an open house for his company, Concept Homes, where she would eventually serve as vice-president. They married in 1962 and shared 53 years together until his passing in 2015. Dot was a founding member of Healing Place Church in Baton Rouge. She delighted in hobbies like sewing, candy making, and cake decorating. After retiring, she launched a small jewelry business called Fantastic Designs. She had a special talent for finding anything people needed, earning her the affectionate nickname, “Getter of Things.” On January 31, 2024, during a revival service at Healing Place Church, God touched the hearts of Dot, and Alvin Cavalier, and they were married on April 18, 2024.
She will be fondly remembered for her love of glittering clothes and shoes as much as for her vibrant personality. Dot adored her country, the Lord Jesus, and was a devoted fan of the LSU Tigers, always representing them from head to toe in dazzling style. Nothing pleased her more than a homemade brownie with ice cream, and her favorite Costco mochas. Above all, she cherished her family, and lifelong friends Dee, and Charlene.
She is survived by her sons, Lance Burkhalter and wife Christa, Alan Burkhalter and wife Linda; daughters, June Lyons and husband Russ, Laurel Doucet and husband Greg; sister, Betty Caldwell; grandchildren, Alana Lyons, Mason Burkhalter, Jared Scallan, Madison Wenger, Olivia Doucet, and Rachel Burkhalter. She is also survived by many beloved great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Maurice Sims; husband, Al Burkhalter, brothers, George Sims, Jr. and Jack Sims; sister, Flo Coursey; and granddaughter, Morgan Watson.
Memorial Service is Friday, August 7, 2026 at Greenoaks Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 9595 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Visitation begins at 8:30am The Service is from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. with grave side service to follow.
