Dorothy Dyes

Dorothy was born Dorothy Evelyn Cox Smith in Pemiscot County, Gobler, Missouri, to the late Ernest Smith and the late Edna Elizabeth “Liza Jane” Cox.She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Lisa Lynett Allen, whom she missed dearly. Dorothy was also preceded in death by her cherished siblings, whom she adored dearly and with whom she shared a special relationship: James Charles “JC” Starnes – the defender of his family. Vilee Lauderdale – the gentle one and a good listener. Richard Louis Starnes – the best tractor operator. Naomi McCall – intelligent and a great provider. Hugh Smith – a great dog trainer and the real deal. Edward Lee “Bobby” Smith – a good craftsman and great dance partner. Gloria Dean “Pat” Nelson – a great hairstylist and Good Samaritan.

Cherished Childhood Memories

Some of Dorothy’s fondest childhood memories were of the wonderful family gatherings at her grandparents’ home, Mary and Henry Love, on Sundays. These gatherings included her immediate family, as well as extended family members.Those times were especially memorable because her grandmother, Mary, adored her grandchildren and would bake batches of tea cakes to share with them. This small token of love made each grandchild feel special and created memories Dorothy cherished throughout her life.

Teenage Years in Southeast Missouri

During Dorothy’s teenage years in Southeast Missouri, she often spent time with her favorite cousins: the late James Richard “Rabbit” Austin, the late Sadie Mae Thompson, the late Mae Berta Austin, and Mable Williams. Together, they attended church functions, went to the movies, and enjoyed spending time at the teen hangout, Mr. Montgomery’s a Sweet Spot. The teens enjoyed some of the best burgers and hospitality in town. They also listened to the latest music on the jukebox and learned the latest dances so they could dance the night away. Dorothy was an excellent cook and enjoyed eating her cooking while sharing recipes.

A New Chapter

Changes were taking place throughout Southeast Missouri, and many young people were eager to explore new opportunities. Like many of them, Dorothy decided to move to another state in search of greater opportunities in life. She chose to move to Benton Harbor, Michigan, where her favorite uncle, John Henry Love, lived. After arriving in the area, Dorothy decided to live with her eldest sister, Vilee Lauderdale, whom she had missed being around, and Vilee’s family in Niles, Michigan. A few years later, Dorothy met and married Charles Vernon Allen in May 1963. In later years, she met and married Pastor Boston Dyes.

Those Who Carry On Her Legacy

Those who will forever treasure Dorothy and carry on her legacy include her loving daughter, Angela Denise Allen of South Bend, Indiana; stepchildren Zachary Todd Allen (Barbara Lynne) of Niles and Christi Lynne Allen of Kokomo, Indiana; and her special grandson, Tykire A. Mulherion of South Bend, Indiana. Special loving family Meta Sproles and her two sons Aris and Geno Hoath. Dorothy is also survived by her cherished sisters, whom she loved dearly: Ethel Cox Smith – a skilled hand-sewer with a couture style and a gourmet cook Kansas City, Missouri. Mamie Dean Daniels – the quiet, reserved one of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Mary Pearl Nelson – the intellectual from Kansas City, Missouri. Plus, her friends who were like siblings unto her, she loved dearly: Mable Fredonia Jordan, Vera Nicks, Lillie Maxwell, and Georgia Brown. Sister-in-law Almarie Smith. She also leaves behind an abundance of family and loved ones, including nephews, nieces, cousins, and many others whose lives she touched.

Service Saturday August 29, 2026

10AM Viewing 

11AM Service 

Laymen Chapel CME Church 303 S. Kenmore St. 

Burial Monday Fairview Cemetery 

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