Dorothy Maxine "Dot" James Obituary

Dorothy Maxine “Dot” James, 94, of Palestine, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at her home with her loving family by her side.

Born in Waynoka, Oklahoma, to John and Daisy Swallow, Dot later moved to Palestine with her beloved husband, Harold “Fuzzy” James, where they built a life together for 48 years until his passing. A familiar and friendly face at Palestine City Hall, she proudly served the community for 24 years before retiring in 1991. Her warmth, smile, and generous spirit were cherished by all who knew her.

A woman of deep faith, Dot was a devoted member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where she joyfully served alongside her dear friends in the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League.

Above all, Dot treasured her family. Her greatest joy came from time spent with her grandsons, Chadrick Turbyfill and Matthew Rodgers.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her siblings: Bob, Leonard, and Ted Swallow; Betty Fowler; Margaret Jones; Helen Jones; and Bonnie Walton.

She is survived by her son, Kent James, her daughter, Kathy Rodgers, and her two treasured grandsons and many special nieces and nephews.

A graveside service to honor Dot’s life will be held at City Cemetery at 2:00 PM on Monday, October 27, 2025 with her friend and longtime neighbor, Reverend Lynn Willhite officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Bethlehem Lutheran Church or to a charity of your choice in Dot’s memory. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Angel’s Care Home Health, Heart to Heart Hospice, the nurses and staff of Palestine Regional ICU and Rehab, and the many doctors who helped maintain her comfort, dignity, and quality of life until the very end.