Dorothy Mae Strickland, age 78, of New Hanover County and formerly of Willard left this life for her eternal rest on Monday, September 3, 2012 from Kindred Healthcare-Cypress Pointe of Wilmington.

She was born January 1, 1934 in Pender County and was the daughter of the late Luther Thomas and Annie Bell Rivenbark Strickland. She was also predeceased by five of her siblings.

Dorothy is survived by her sisters, Janie Elizabeth Norris and husband, Carlyle of Wilmington, Shirley Lowry and husband, David of Jacksonville, FL and Linda Faye Nelson, of Jacksonville, FL; her brothers, Albert Ray Strickland of Jacksonville, FL and Walter Strickland and wife, Mary Lee of Willard and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Graveside funeral service will be 11:00am Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at Riverview Memorial Park, Watha.

To know "Dot" was to love her. She found great joy in the simplest things but her greatest joy was family, especially her mother, who was the light of her life. She loved her pet animals, being dressed up and going to church when her health permitted her to go. Although many could not always interpret the words that Dot was saying she had her own language that those who knew her could understand. Enjoying the attention she received, Dot loved going to the doctor and her visits to the hospital. She was a special lady who will be greatly missed. Cherished memories will always remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved Dot.

Dot's family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Kindred Healthcare-Cypress Pointe in Wilmington for the loving and excellent care given to Dot while she lived there.

Condolences may be sent to the family by selecting our "Memory Wall" above.Graveside Service 11:00am Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at Riverview Memorial Park, Watha.