Dorothy Lee Schwander

Dorothy Lee Schwander was born September 30, 1931 in Fulton, Arkansas to George and Connie Akin. She was the fifth child of sixth, all of whom she survived. Her childhood was spent in a small Arkansas town, in a home only steps away from the banks of the Red River. Fulton, like other American cities formed on river banks, derived its economic life-blood from bustling river traffic commerce. It was this climate of colorful character where thoughts of life beyond the confines of her home began to roam. As a child whose family's existence was wholly dependent on farm animals and massive gardens for survival, hard work and family contribution were not only expected, but demanded. Butter was churned, eggs gathered, and vegetables canned. Dorothy confessed she looked forward to hog slaughtering day where she assisted her father in dunking the pig in a barrel of boiling water to remove its hair. For those who know her incomparable kind and gentle spirit, who would have thought? Her life was in essence reminiscent of a Steinbeck novel where economic strife and hard times, made tolerable by family and love, formed the story. After graduating Texarkana High, Dorothy wasted no time setting her sails for a bigger adventure. After being accepted into the St. Vincent's nursing school, she would make her final home in Little Rock. In a program overseen by nuns where any semblance of impropriety was strictly forbidden, Dorothy could not resist her slightly mischievous tendencies. At great risk, and possible expulsion, she and her friend made their way to the Robinson Auditorium where they, with hundreds of other love-struck girls, gyrated to the music of the King-Elvis. As a surgical nurse, Dorothy encountered a brilliant, skilled and immensely regarded surgeon named Howard, who having never married at age 44, was one of the most eligible bachelors in town. Captured by her beauty and a personality, that was considered non-conforming to the times, Howard was no fool. But, never married herself, neither was Dorothy. If the good doctor wanted to woo her, he was going to have to prove his worth. The courtship ended in marriage on September 25, 1959. Howard was 46 and Dorothy was 28. What ensued was a 41 year love affair of which fairy-tales are made. Their life of mutual cherish, love and respect can be gleaned as nothing short of marital perfection and a shining example for all. Without doubt, their greatest joy was their two children, "Sylvie girl" and "Pup". As a mother, there was absolutely nothing Dorothy would not do to nourish, love and protect them. In its purest form, Dorothy was the true definition of "motherhood." Dorothy's leisure involved travel, gardening, and bowling. But her true passion was found on a tennis court. She was considered by all as a formidable opponent and won almost every tournament she ever played, defeating women twenty years her junior. Her athletic prowess was forged at an early age. In high school, she was voted all regional as a senior women's basketball guard. Around 2000, Dorothy's name changed from her one-year old grandson, Lee's inability to pronounce her name. Lee dubbed his grandmother, "Dot-Dot". The moniker caught fire and from thereon "Dot-Dot" was who she became to her friends and family. For all who knew her, even casually," Dot-Dot" was the embodiment of elegance, class, dignity and character. There was truly no one who ever met her that did not want to be close to her or call her friend. Her beautiful light of compassion highlighted by an intoxicating smile graced our oft dim world every single day. She deeply loved her children and grandchildren unconditionally. To say she will be missed would be the most prodigious understatement of all times. "Dot-Dot" was survived by her two children, Sylvia and Howard III, (Ashley), her beloved grandchildren, Lee and Suzanne and her daily companion, Maddie girl and too many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews to list. Thanks to our Lord for gracing our family with all the precious moments, memories and the incredible privilege of knowing and being loved by "Dot-Dot". One of earth's finest has now gone to dance with her love, Howard, as one of Heaven's finest. The family wants to give special thanks and our deepest heartfelt gratitude to Holly Hanson, Dr. Tim Cook, the aides of her home health care, and the staff of Arkansas Hospice for their care, love and comfort in her final days. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wounded Warrior Project are deeply appreciated. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 28, 2019 from 2-4 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth Funeral Home, 5800 West 12th Street in Little Rock. Funeral services will be on Monday, July 29, 2019 at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel, burial will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park. Please visit www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com for the online tribute.