Reflections of Life

Born Dorothy E. Ulmer on April 9, 1930, in Pensacola, Florida, Dorothy’s life was a beautiful testament to resilience, faith, and love. She was Frank and Mamie Louise Ulmer's middle child and only daughter. In 1943, the family moved to New York City, where Dorothy received her formal education, setting the stage for a life marked by purpose and dedication.

In 1948, Dorothy married her first true love, Arthur Stanley Morris. Together, they built a family of strength and devotion, raising four sons: Eugene, Stephen, James, and Victor. In 1956, the family became one of the first to move into the newly constructed Grant Houses in Harlem, embracing a pioneering spirit and strong sense of community.

Life presented challenges, and in 1969, Dorothy faced the heartbreaking loss of Arthur. In 1970, she moved her family to The Bronx, where she would remain until her passing on November 11, 2024. Even after such profound loss, Dorothy’s heart remained open to love. After years of courtship, she cemented her lifelong partnership with Gerald “Geno” Dillon in 1986. This union brought her a stepson, Deron Dillon, who was embraced with the same warmth and love she extended to all her family. Dorothy and Gerald shared many cherished years until his passing in 2003.

Dorothy was deeply committed to her education and professional growth. She earned an associate's degree from Hunter College and served as the executive administrative assistant to the director of music at Hunter College for 25 years. Her work was more than a job—it reflected her dedication to excellence and her belief in the transformative power of education and creativity.

Dorothy’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Harlem for over 60 years, she enjoyed Reverend Adolph Roberts's preaching. She sang joyfully in the choir, served on the flower committee, and contributed to various other church initiatives. As one of the church's mothers, she was a steadfast source of wisdom, encouragement, and prayer for all who knew her.

Dorothy embraced life fully and was an avid traveler, finding joy in Caribbean trips, cruises, and new adventures. She also expressed her creativity as a published poet and cherished her time connecting with family and friends. Known for her impeccable fashion sense, Dorothy’s presence lit up every room she entered, leaving an impression of elegance, grace, and warmth.

Her legacy is carried on by her three surviving sons, Stephen, Victor, and Deron; her daughter-in-law, Shanya; her niece, Brenda; her beloved grandchildren, Arthur, Yolanda, Monique, Neisha, Kason, Shawn, Shavar, Chyna, Shaheem, Shania, Starchema, Sharea, Kapri, Tekia; and 27 great-grandchildren and 17 great-great-grandchildren.

As we reflect on Dorothy’s extraordinary life, we celebrate her unwavering faith,enduring love for her family, and ability to inspire and uplift those around her. Her legacy of grace, strength, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all blessed to know her.