Darthula Agnes Woodfin

Darthula (Vause) Woodfin passed away peacefully at her home in Broadview of Tallahassee June 5.

"Dot" was born in Arran, Florida, August 30,1927 into a family of eight siblings. Although the youngest, Dot was not babied. Most of her siblings had left home by the time her father died when Dot was three. Although short-lived, E.D. Johnson, Dot’s first stepfather, was her most influential “dad”. He taught her a love of flowers and to judge people by their deeds rather than appearance, class or words. Although Dot’s mom had four other short-lived husbands and struggled managing the family farm and finances, Darthula (Griffin), reinforced Papa Johnson’s sense of fairness. Dot learned to be strong, pragmatic and loyal. Dot and her mother’s candor, honesty and wit became a “gallows humor” that are unforgettable.

After a short courtship in Cairo, Dot took a bus ticket from Charles and a chance on joining and marrying him in Nevada in 1952. As a military wife for twenty six years, she made good homes in six states for Charles and their son, Chuck, over a twenty-six year career. In all of the homes she made many fast friends who valued Dot’s loyalty, outspokenness and irreverent sense of humor. In 1972, Dot and Charles settled in their hearts’ home in Bradfordville. Their home in the woods became the center of a good life including many memorable visits from their son Chuck, Janet and grandson Ian. All the Woodfins treasure memories of Dot and Charles’ frequent visits to their only son’s home in Alaska.

In 1986, Dot started working at the information desk at TMH. For 14 years she made a good impression on thousands of visitors and callers. Whether giving much-needed comfort to families waiting in the lobby, giving directions or advising the CEO on the best romance novels to read, Dot excelled. In 1992 she was awarded the TMH Caring Hands Award. Dot retired in 2000. For years afterward, employees and hospital visitors would recognize her around town and thank her. Most recently, Dot and Charles’ home has been Broadview Assisted Living in Tallahassee. Dot’s courage, honesty and saucy talk made her a favorite friend to residents and staff at Broadview.

Darthula Woodfin’s immediate family members are, Charles, Chuck, Janet and Ian Woodfin. Her beloved sister, Annabelle Crisler, lives in Albany, Georgia. Her niece, Shirley Nelson of Tallahassee, has been an almost-sister for life and loyal caretaker.

Her friends and relatives will sorely miss Dot. She lives on as long as we carry fond memories of her love and irreverent wit.

Visitation will be held,10:00-11:00 AM, Monday, June 10, 2012 at the Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home, Timberlane Chapel, 700 Timberlane Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32312. Funeral services will held at 11:00AM with a reception to follow in the MeadowWood Room.

In lieu of flowers, Dot's family would appreciate donations to Big Bend Hospice 1723 Mahan Center Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32308.

Arrangements are under the direction of Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home in Tallahassee, Florida.