Dorothy Ellen Maxwell (“Dot” or “Dottie”) of Forest, Virginia, passed into the arms of her beloved Jesus on March 30, 2023, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Dot was born on September 14, 1943, on Staten Island, New York, to Joseph and Evelyn Burdge. Her husband, George Andrew Maxwell, was her high school sweetheart. They married in December of 1964 and shortly thereafter moved to Maryland and later to Virginia. Their four children: Michelle Anne (Lisenbee), George Christopher, Tracey Lynn (Grutz) and Pamela Jean (Fowler) blessed Dot and George with 16 grandchildren, and they were the light of Dot’s life.
After committing their lives to the Lord in 1992, George and Dot provided counseling and prayer through many venues. Their home was always a place of welcome and comfort where many found peace and healing over the years. Dot loved Jesus and as a greeter at Blue Ridge Community Church, her hugs were legendary.
Dot was a warm, extravagantly generous extrovert who loved nothing better than a large family gathering with lots of food and laughter. Soup was her specialty, and she often had a pot simmering on the stove. Camping and being near water of any type made her happy, but she especially loved the ocean. Walking in the sand and swimming in the waves always brought her such joy.
She is survived by her husband, children, and grandchildren, as well as her brother, Richard Burdge of Staten Island, NY who will all miss her more than words can say. She is predeceased by her parents and siblings Evelyn, Edwina, Beverly and Sheila.
A remembrance and celebration of Dorothy’s rich life will be held at Blue Ridge Community Church’s New London campus on Friday, May 5, 2023 at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in her honor.
Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.