Dorothy Mae Wells Muhammad

Sis. Dorothy Muhammad, born Dorothy Mae Wells on November 1, 1940, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, was a beloved mother, grandmother, entrepreneur, and devoted servant of her community. Affectionately known as “Sug,” “Debbie,” and “Miss Dee,” she lived a life of purpose, grace, and unwavering faith. She was born to Corrine Wells Boxley *and James White* and raised in Grace, Mississippi alongside her sisters Marie Jordan and Leola Wells* by her mother and devoted stepfather, Dave Boxley*.

Dorothy was a talented and respected cosmetologist for many years. She worked at the famed Moulin Rouge Beauty Salon in the 1970s and later opened her own salons, Miss Dee’s Hair Internationale on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and East Flamingo Road in Las Vegas. Her excellence led her to serve as President of the Nevada State Board of Cosmetology, as well as a Board Inspector and instructor at Expertise Cosmetology Institute. She also taught cosmetology classes at Florence McClure Women’s Correctional Center, using her gifts to educate and uplift others. An entrepreneur at heart, Dorothy operated a small restaurant in Historic West Las Vegas and later founded “Be Well Herbal Tea,” where she became known for her signature tea presentations, cookies, and quiches.

In November 1989, Dorothy accepted the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad under the leadership of The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan and became a registered member of the Nation of Islam. She faithfully served at Muhammad Mosque No. 75 as Protocol Director and Student Sister Captain until 2012. A devoted servant and spiritual warrior, she remained committed to her faith and community and helped bring the Ebony Fashion Show to Las Vegas each year as a member of the Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, Alpha Rho Chapter.

Dorothy was a devoted mother to James Matthews* and Deloris Matthews, and a loving presence in the life of her great-grandson Kamari Kelly. She cherished her Daughter-in-law, Cherlyn Young, grandchildren—Brianna Kelly, Dallas Harris, Dioria Matthews* Emil Davis, James Matthews, and Whittney Brown—and leaves behind a legacy through her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Sis. Dorothy Muhammad will be remembered for her strength, elegance, service, and the love she shared so freely

Visitation will be held at Palm Mortuary - Downtown, 1325 North Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, on April 16, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, followed by Funeral Service at 12:00 pm. She will be laid to rest at Palm Downtown Cemetery at the conclusion of the services.