Dorothy "Dottie" Whittington

It was often said, “When Dottie was around you were twice as happy, and when you were sad you were only half as sad.” She was world-class lovely, had an infectious laugh, and radiated kindness wherever she went.

Born May 1, 1941, in Waukegan, Illinois, to Lerea June Young Williams (d. 2016) and Donald Ames Williams (d. 1983), Dottie grew up surrounded by family and faith. Don, a Purdue-trained chemical engineer and World War II artillery officer, often referred to his service as his “great experience.” For Dottie, those years meant cherished bonds with cousins that lasted a lifetime. At age 10, she welcomed her sister Joanne (d. 2006).

Her education took her to Indiana, Western Kentucky University, and East Texas State University. While working in the library there, she heard a voice call, “Dottie Williams.” Looking up, she saw a tall Texan. “Who are you?” she asked. With a grin he replied, “Someone you want to know.” That someone was Wayne Whittington. Their first date was in 1961, beginning a love story that lasted more than 60 years.

From 1963–1967, Wayne’s service at Vandenberg Air Force Base took them to California, where their first son, David Michael (wife Debbie), was born. Dottie embraced military life, known as the Belle of the Ball at the Officers’ Club and running outside to watch every missile launch. They later settled in Clear Lake, Texas, near NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where they raised two more sons, Stephen and Matthew (wife Karla).

Dottie devoted herself to her family, faith, and community. She was active in Epsilon Sigma Alpha and Clear Lake United Methodist Church. After moving to Austin in 2015, she joined P.E.O. International and Lake Travis United Methodist Church, quickly making new, cherished friendships.

She is survived by her loving husband Wayne; sons Mike, Stephen, and Matthew; grandchildren Kristen, Ryan, Jacqueline (Jax), Griffin, Deborah, Nick, Rylee, and Lainey; and great-grandchildren Beau, Michael, Helena, and Nate.

Along with her parents and sister, Dottie was preceded in death by her daughter Susan and great-grandson Henry.

Dottie’s legacy is one of joy, kindness, and family devotion. She never met a stranger and will be remembered for her laughter, generosity, and love.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, October 3rd at Lake Travis United Methodist Church, 1502 RR 620 N, Lakeway, TX 78734.