Dorothy Marie Willis

She was born in Altoona, PA. the youngest child of eleven children to the late Santo Scaglione and Lola Beckwith-Smith. She was married to Edward Willis, JR on March 17, 1949. He preceded her in death on August 21, 1980.

Dorothy is survived by her devoted daughter, Sharron D. Thomas and awesome son-in-law Dwayne B. Thomas; loving grandsons Marc Thomas (Andrea), Scott Thomas (Casie), and four adoring and great-grandchildren; Kris, Jordan, Jade and Alanna; a brother Johnny Smith and sister Betty Carr. She was known to many nieces and nephews admirably “Aunt Dot”.

Dorothy was a 1949 graduate of Altoona High School and had retired from Mercy Hospital Altoona as a medical secretary. In her early years she was Altoona‘s first black radio MC at WFBG-FM. She always ended the last song dedicated to her mom, Lola.

She was a faithful member of the Bethel AME Church. Dorothy was a member of the Hostess Unique Club. She also was a member of Arandale Elks Lodge #260 and attended many conventions.

Her dream was to visit Italy one day but above all she enjoyed spending time with her family.

As her daughter, Sharron, she was my beautiful mother, friend, and my rock. We had a wonderful life together. I love you mom!

A funeral service for Dorothy will be held Thursday, April 27, 2023 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Mount Vernon Memorial Park, 8201 Greenback Ln, Fair Oaks, CA 95628, followed by a graveside service from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MountVernonMemorial.com for the Willis family.