Dorothy Mae Mapp Wright

Dorothy Mae (Mapp) Wright, passed away on February 7, 2016. Dot was born in 1926 to Rowland and Lillian Mapp, on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. She grew up in Exmore, graduating from Northampton High School. Dot was the first woman in her family to complete college, attending Madison College (now JMU) and Richmond Professional Institute (now VCU), graduating with a degree in Business Administration. Rather than return home to the Eastern Shore after college, Dot decided to stay in Richmond. There she met the love of her life, Andy, on a blind date, in April, 1951. By September, they were married and had moved to Wisconsin. Dot worked at the Blatz Brewery, while Andy finished college. After a few years and two daughters, they moved to Baltimore, MD. After another few years, and a son, they moved to Pittsburgh, PA. By then Dot was a full time homemaker, taking care of her family. A few years later, the family had one more son, and then moved to California. Finally, they returned to Virginia in 1962 and settled in Newport News. Dot and Andy were active members of Trinity Lutheran Church; participating in the Altar Guild and other church activities. As the children grew, Dot reentered the work force. Dot eventually worked for the Peninsula Agency on Aging – first as a driver for Meals On Wheels and eventually as a site supervisor where the elderly were transported to her site for a meal and entertainment. After all of the children had left home, Dot and Andy relocated to the Williamsburg area in 1990 where they remained. Dot and Andy enjoyed their bridge games with friends as well as taking care of the family. Traveling was also one of their interests, going on extended trips out west and up and down the east coast. Dot and Andy will be remembered as a “devoted couple, supportive parents, and adventurers together.” Dot will be sorely missed. Dot was predeceased by her parents and her sisters, Gloria Ellen Mapp and Margaret Sturgis. Dot is now back with her husband and best friend Andy, her daughter Debbie Effemey, and son Ben Wright. Dot is survived by her daughter Judy Lyver, grandsons John and Tom Lyver; her son Henry Wright, his wife Lori and granddaughter Lacey Wright; and son-in-law Gary Effemey. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday February 13, 2016 at the Nelson Funeral Home on Strawberry Plains Road in Williamsburg, VA. After a short reception, interment will be held at the Williamsburg Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Dot’s name to Williamsburg Faith in Action or your favorite charity. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.nelsencares.com.