Dorothy "Dottie" Jeanette Whitlow

Born in 1954 in Wichita Falls, Texas, Dottie was the daughter of the late Bob May and Patricia Coleman. She spent part of her childhood in the Panama Canal Zone and graduated from Balboa High School. A lifelong learner and passionate educator, Dottie earned her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from The University of Texas, followed by advanced degrees in Administration and Supervision from University of West Georgia. She culminated her academic journey by earning a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from Georgia State University.

Throughout a distinguished career in education spanning decades, Dottie served students, teachers, and school communities in numerous districts, including Loveland ISD in Texas, Cobb County Schools, Douglas County Schools, and Atlanta Public Schools. Her commitment to educational excellence extended beyond the classroom through her work in school turnaround and reform initiatives with National Center on Education and the Economy and America’s Choice. She concluded her professional career as an educational consultant, supporting school systems throughout Georgia.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Dottie found great joy in gardening, exercising, teaching fitness classes, traveling, and playing golf. She embraced life with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a dedication to helping others grow and succeed.

Dottie was preceded in death by her mother, Patricia Coleman; her father, Bob May; and her stepfather, Red Coleman.

She is survived by her loving husband, Ed Malin; her son, Jody Whitlow; her daughter-in-law, Tiffany Whitlow; her beloved grandson, Jasper Whitlow; her brother, Robert Coleman; and her nephew, Ryan Coleman. She also leaves behind many friends, colleagues, former students, and family members whose lives were enriched by her kindness, wisdom, and generosity.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on July 25, 2026, at H.M. Patterson & Son Funeral Directors. A livestream link will be available for those unable to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Dottie’s honor to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).

Dottie’s legacy lives on through the countless students, educators, friends, and family members whose lives she touched. Her dedication to education, her love of learning, and her unwavering support of others will be remembered always.