Dottie was born in Grand Saline, Texas, on June 24, 1940, to Luke and Clorine Burks. She went on to build a life full of love, laughter, and deep devotion to her family. She married Gene Whitsitt with whom she shared 54 years before his passing in 2014. She was preceded in death by her husband Gene, her parents Luke and Clorine, and her brothers Calvin Dale and James Edward Burks.

Dottie was one of the kindest souls you could ever meet. She was an incredible support to her children and grandchildren — always cheering them on in their activities, believing in them, and showing up in such a genuine way. Her family was her world, and she poured her heart into them every single day. Family often gathered at her home for one of her delicious home-cooked meals and to gather around the table and play games.

Dottie also had a fun side that made her unforgettable. She was a huge fan of Texas Pecan coffee and could often be seen drinking a cup, whether it be noon or midnight. She was a loyal Dallas Cowboys fan, dating all the way back to the Tom Landry days, and an avid OKC Thunder fan. On fall Saturdays, she was all about football — following her Oklahoma State Cowboys and Texas A&M Aggies.

She loved all things family, football and fun, and you always knew she’d have the game on.

Dottie is survived by her two daughters, Melinda Hogland of Newcastle, and Gina Whitsitt of San Antonio, Texas; and sister, Carolyn Jones. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Holly Hogland, Emily Ague (Robbie), Sarah Hogland (Donnie), Zach Vaiana (Alexandra), and Austin Vaiana; her great-grandchildren, Hailee, Hailey, Rex, Sophie, and Blake. They filled her heart with so much joy and pride.

Her family is heartbroken that she is gone, and the hole she leaves will be deeply felt for the rest of their lives.

Her final chapter was filled with tenderness and deep gratitude for the time she had. She fought hard, she loved deeply, and she will be forever remembered for her gentle presence, her wit, and the way she made people feel seen and loved.

Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now reunited with Gene and her parents and they are certain she is being welcomed into Heaven with the same open arms and bright smile she greeted others with here on earth.

A family celebration of her beautiful life will be held at a later date.