Dorothy Lee

Smith

Dorothy Gates Smith, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully departed this world on October 10, 2026, surrounded by the immense love she so generously shared throughout her life. Born on April 24, 1937, in Lafayette County, Mississippi, Dorothy was the beloved daughter of Melvia and Robert L. Gates. Dorothy’s life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and unwavering faith. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Smith, whom she married on May 4, 1990, and who remained the love of her life until his passing. She was also preceded by her five siblings, Ervin, Jasper, Thomas Gates, Mary Barr, Rosie Hickey, and RC (Bo) Gates, whose memories she treasured dearly.

Her legacy lives on through her devoted son, Ernest G. Vassar, Jr., and his wife, Belinda, of Banner, Mississippi. Dorothy was the proud grandmother of two special grandchildren, Kimberly Vassar and Ernest Stephon Vassar, along with his wife, Demetria, all of whom she adored. Her four great-grandchildren—Brandon Flowers, Kingston Flowers, Ethan Vassar, and Aiden Martin—were her greatest joy, and she delighted in every moment spent with them.

Dorothy is also survived by her brother, Dewayne Gates of Oxford, Mississippi; sisters, Shirley Mitchell of Taylor, Mississippi, Alma Higginbottom of Oxford, Mississippi, and Flossie Ragland, alongside her husband, Charles, of Water Valley, Mississippi; aunts, Annie Curtis of Memphis, Tennessee, Maudie Rockette of Water Valley, Mississippi, and Roberta Johnson of Taylor, Mississippi, held a special place in her heart; as did her extensive family of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and the Clear Creek Missionary Baptist Church community.

A proud graduate of Taylor High School, Dorothy dedicated over thirty years to her career as a Certified Nurse, bringing compassion and care to those at Graceland Nursing Home in Oxford, Mississippi, and later as a foster grandparent at NMRC in Oxford. She was known for her wonderful sense of humor, a quality that made her company a delight to all who knew her.

Dorothy’s passions were many; she found joy in singing and praising, crafting beautiful embroidery, and, most importantly, cherishing time with her family. Her warm spirit and kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

To our family and friends, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your many expressions of love, support, and prayers during this time. A special thank you goes to Shanderla (Ree) and Shirley Mitchell for your unwavering love, support, and care. We are eternally grateful to Gentiva Hospice for their compassion and to Community Funeral Directors for their assistance during this difficult time.

Dorothy’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love and devotion, woven with threads of kindness, laughter, and unwavering faith. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.