Born in Gallatin, Tennessee, Dot lived a full and grounded life built on faith, family, hard work, and honesty. She spent her career as a Registered Nurse, caring for others with a steady hand and a sharp mind. Dot had a gift for being both compassionate and straightforward — she could comfort a patient one moment and tell you exactly what you needed to hear the next. Those who worked alongside her respected her professionalism and her refusal to cut corners when it came to doing things the right way.
At home, Dot was the same way — loving, loyal, and deeply protective of her family, but never one to sugarcoat the truth. She believed in saying what needed to be said, even when it was hard to hear, because she knew honesty was a form of love. Her guidance was firm but fair, her advice practical and wise. Many family members will remember her not just for her care, but for the lessons she taught — about responsibility, perseverance, and standing on your own two feet.
Dot had a no-nonsense way of approaching life, but she also had a tender heart. She enjoyed her daily crossword puzzles and sudoku, always keeping her mind sharp and active. She took joy in her cactus plants and her garden vegetables, nurturing them with the same patience and steadiness she gave to the people in her life. She loved simple routines, quiet mornings, and the satisfaction of a day well spent.
Dot is survived by her dear friend, Donis Olive; her devoted son, Anthony Elder, and his wife Pamela; her beloved grandchildren, Jurel Elder and his wife Rebecca, Ivan Elder, Chanss Elder, Dennielle Doyle and her husband Taylor, Chris Reeves and his wife Michelle, Sophia Doyle, Ronald Davis II, and Trevor Davis; her loving sister, Cora Chandler; and her aunts, Bettie Pleasant and Catherine Peacock. She also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will miss her deeply.
Dot’s presence was strong and steady — the kind that kept others grounded. She will be remembered for her loving heart, her practical wisdom, and her honest way of showing care. Her family takes comfort in knowing that her lessons and love will live on in their hearts, guiding them just as she always did.
“Dot believed in doing what was right, saying what was true, and loving you enough not to lie to you. She didn’t mince words, but every word came from her heart — and that’s what made her so deeply loved.”
Regards,
C. Anthony Elder
"Each and every day, we have a choice to either love that person that's in front of us or not. It's the relationships that you build over the years that is the most important thing in life. Everything else is just an illusion."
