Dorothy “Dot” J Ellis, age 89, of Nashville TN, peacefully passed away on 4/24/2025 surrounded by family. Born on Christmas Day 1935, in Nashville, she was a devoted Mother, Wife, Grandmother and a faithful servant of God.
Dot lived a life filled with love, kindness, and unwavering faith. Her parents instilled a tremendous work ethic that followed her throughout her life. After graduating from Cumberland High School, she received her teaching credentials from a combination of George Peabody College (later Vanderbilt) and MTSU. She taught for 43 years for Metro Nashville Public Schools. Dot was an avid Tennis player but in her younger years she was an All-City basketball player at Cumberland High School. Later she went on to coach Tennis and Basketball and influenced many amazing young women through the years. Other interests include flower arranging, dancing, gardening, charity work, hosting family functions, photography, bible study, supporting family members at horse shows, travel and caregiver to family and anyone in need. Her faith was evident in the way she treated others, always offering a helping hand and a listening ear.
Dorothy is survived by her children Joni Cheshire (Mark) and Jay Ellis (Sherry); grandchildren, Morgan Wittenberg (Isaiah) and Jason Ellis; siblings, Peggy Fielder (Bob), Betty Causey (Sam) and Dr. Roger Richards (Linda). She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She was preceded in death by parents, Gus and Georgia Richards; husband, Jody Ellis; children, Joey Ellis (Gail); siblings Gus Richards Jr. (Rebecca) and Bobby Richards (Judy).
A celebration of her life is being planned for a later date. Her legacy of faith, love, and service can only be described as well done!!!
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alive Hospice Nashville at alivehospice.org.
This obituary was published by Spring Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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