Dorothy Oxendine

Dorothy Oxendine, a woman whose life was defined by remarkable strength, profound faith, and dedicated service to her community and fellow Gold Star families, passed away on November 9, 2025, at the age of 99. Born in 1926, Dorothy was the oldest of nine children to survive, a role that perhaps foreshadowed the resilience she would exhibit throughout her long life.

Dorothy was the beloved wife of the late Willie F. Oxendine. Together, they built a family rooted in love and devotion. Her life, however, was marked by an immense personal sacrifice when she lost her son, Marine paratrooper Willie French "Frenchie" Oxendine III, during the Vietnam War in 1968 at just 19 years old. She learned of his passing on Memorial Day, a day she often referred to as the "real Memorial Day". This tragedy transformed her grief into a lifelong mission of honor and support for other Gold Star Mothers. She also lost a her daughter Lois in 2014.

A dedicated member of the American Gold Star Mothers, Dorothy became a prominent figure in the organization, serving as its National President from 2002 to 2003. Her leadership extended to becoming the first female president of the Long Island National Cemetery Memorial Organization in Farmingdale, New York. In 2003, driven by a need for closure and remembrance, she made a courageous journey to Vietnam to visit the site where her son was killed. Her unwavering message to others who shared her loss was simple yet powerful: "Don't have hate in your heart".

Dorothy was a woman of strong Episcopal faith and an active, cherished member of her community. Even after losing her eyesight in her later years, she maintained her independence and resolve, continuing to navigate her home and enjoy life's simple pleasures like homemade ice cream and listening to the radio and TV.

Her legacy is carried on by a loving family. She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Ezzo; her sister, Delores; her 6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. Dorothy's life was a testament to courage, an enduring spirit, and a deep well of love that touched all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed, but her message of strength and hope will continue to inspire.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: Vietnam Veterans of America.

Visitation will be held on November 16, 2025, at Arthur F. White Funeral Home, located at 315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale, NY, 11735, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday at 11am at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Farmingdale, NY.

Interment will take place at Long Island National Cemetery, 2040 Wellwood Avenue, Farmingdale, New York, 11735.