Doris Jean Farmer

Doris “Dottye” Jean Farmer

Doris “Dottye” Jean Farmer, 92, of Longview, Texas passed away peacefully in her home on July 18, 2020 surrounded by family. Dottye was born on November 23, 1927 in Dallas, Texas to Richard and Frieda (Schaffner) Atkins. When she was born, her father exclaimed that “she was no bigger than a dot,” and she was referred to as “Dottye” from then on.

Dottye grew up in Highland Park and moved to Longview when she was 15. She graduated from Longview High School in 1945.

The same year, Dottye met her husband, Gerald, at a church function after he returned home from serving in the Navy during World War II. Dottye and Gerald were married on October 17, 1947 at First Baptist Church in Longview. In the early days of their marriage, they shared an apartment with other married couples due to scarce housing resulting from the thousands of servicemen returning from the war. They enjoyed the outdoors and taking family trips to national and state parks and remained happily married for over 32 years until Gerald’s death in 1980.

Dottye led a healthy and active lifestyle. She taught swimming and group fitness classes at the Longview YMCA for 25 years and instructed senior exercise classes, including yoga in the park, for the City of Longview for 10 years. She had a passion for reading books, learning about the world, and researching genealogy, making her a perfect fit for her 32-year career at the Longview Public Library. She retired only two months ago in May of this year.

Dottye relished spending time with her family and supporting them in various activities. She spent countless hours attending sporting events, scouting activities, music lessons, and church functions. Time at the family lake house on Lake Cherokee was always a special time for her with family, relatives, and friends. She took pleasure in gardening, watching birds, and playing cards with her friends. She liked to follow her favorite sports and would often amaze family members and others as she provided updates on the latest news and team statistics. Never intimidated by technology, she enjoyed keeping up with her family and friends through email and digital photos.

Dottye’s faith in Jesus and love of the Lord sustained her throughout her lifetime. She was an active member of First Baptist Church for over 70 years. Her favorite verse was Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it,” which was displayed throughout her home on magnets, bookmarks, and wall art. Dottye made the most of the time given to her and served as a virtuous example for her children, grandchildren, and friends. She was joyful, even in times of suffering, and grateful, no matter what. She thought the reflection of sunrise on still water was one of the most beautiful sights in the world.

Dottye is preceded in death by her husband Gerald Farmer, and sisters Evelyn Todd Taylor and Audrey Franklin. She is survived by her daughter, Gerrie Arnold and her husband, Warren; son, Richard Farmer and his wife, Nancy; son, David Farmer and his wife, Cathy; and grandchildren, Christina and Andrew Farmer.

Visitation will be held at Welch Funeral Home (Judson Road) on Thursday, July 23 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. The funeral will be at First Baptist Church of Longview on Friday, July 24 at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to one of Dottye’s favorite charities, the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering (imb.org)

The family request that guest wear mask to the visitation and the service.