Dorothea, (Dot as she was nicknamed), age 94, passed away October 26, 2021. She was born in Roanoke, VA and grew up on a farm in Bedford, VA. Her childhood was a true farm existence with gardening and caring for animals. She grew up in the Baptist Church that her father built on the farm. She remained a lifelong Baptist. She was a graduate of Madison College (JMU) when it was an all girls school and loved that experience.
Dorothea married Gene, and moved to Arlington, VA - the big city. They were soon a family of 6, when joined by children Wayne, Karen, Vince and Elaine. Dorothea maintained their home in Arlington until her move to Goodwin House, Falls Church.
Dorothea had a long successful career at Arlington Public Schools before retirement. She was the payroll supervisor for the last 15 years of her career. She had a mathematical mind which she also used to maintain the financials for Gene’s masonry business.
Dorothea was best known by her family for her cooking and baking skills. She could sew like a professional seamstress and crocheted beautifully. She had a strong faith in God.
Dorothea is survived by her children, Karen (Bill) Basham, Vince (Kathy) Clingenpeel, Elaine (Tom) Grantham; daughter-in-law, Pat Clingenpeel; grandchildren, Carol, David, Laurie, Eric, Daniel, John, Kristen, Kimberly; and 10 great-grandchildren.
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