Mrs. Dorothy Longley

Dorothy “Dot” Longley passed away September 11, 2026. She was born in Cohutta, Georgia. Dot’s life story is one rooted in humble beginnings, strong family values, and a deep sense of community. In 1948, she married F. G. Longley, who preceded her in death in 2013, and together they raised their family on a working farm off Prospect Church Road in Collegedale, Tennessee.

Survivors are children: Myra (Jerry) Burgess and Joy (David) Newby, two grandsons: Joshua Newby and Matthew (Bella) Newby, and great-grandson Colton Newby. One sister, Bonnie Dean.

Dot’s professional life was inspiring. She began her career at Davenport Hosiery Mill, but her thirst for knowledge and passion for education led her to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Southern Missionary College (now Southern Adventist University). She spent over 30 years teaching at Westview Elementary, primarily 4th grade.

Always one to go above and beyond, Dot wore many hats. She sold World Book Encyclopedia, obtained her real estate license, and worked with Jim Goodman Realty in Ooltewah. She also worked at the Trading Post store and was a receptionist at Standifer Place nursing home. After retirement, Dot remained active in the workforce—serving in visitation and receptionist roles at Chattanooga Funeral Home, both a Valley View and East Brainerd Chapels. Dot continued to work at Valley View Chapel earning admiration and affection from everyone around her until June 2026.

A Christian, Dot is a member of Apison Baptist Church and has also attended Eastwood Baptist Church. She has served her community as a member of the Collegedale Planning Commission.

Dot’s personal life has been no less industrious. When her husband was away working with the Electric Power Board often during power outages, Dot managed the farm on her own—raising beef cattle, pigs, and chickens, harvesting hay, driving tractors, and tending to a large garden. Her hands-on approach and can-do attitude were nothing short of extraordinary.

The family wishes to thank Mary Harper, Tiffany Harrell and Peggy Taylor for their extraordinary care during recent days.

There will be no visitation at the funeral home, and a private immediate family burial will be at Plowman Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Adoration Hospice in her memory.