Dorothy Olson

September 17, 1947 - June 26, 2025

Dorothy Lee Olson (née Wagner), affectionately known as Dottie, passed away on June 26, 2025, in Evington, VA, at the age of 77. Born on September 17, 1947, in East Orange, NJ, she lived a life marked by deep faith, unwavering dedication to service, and a passion for education.

Dottie graduated from Bloomfield High School in Bloomfield, NJ. She went on to earn her degree from Northeastern Bible College in Essex Fells, NJ. Her commitment to learning and teaching led her to pursue a Master's Degree in English as a Second Language from Columbia University in South Carolina.

Her life's work was a testament to her devotion to sharing the Gospel and serving others. Dottie spent 13 years as a missionary in Zambia, Africa, where she traveled by motorcycle through the bush to lead Bible studies and share her faith in remote villages. Her courage and conviction left an indelible mark on the communities she served.

Following her time in Africa, Dottie taught English as a Second Language for two years at the University of Seoul in Korea. There, she used the Bible as her textbook and found many opportunities to share the message of Jesus with her students. Later, she continued her calling by teaching at Liberty University, where she influenced countless lives through both her academic instruction and spiritual guidance.

Dottie's relationship with God was the cornerstone of her life. She embraced every opportunity to share her faith and lived each day with purpose and grace.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Carl Gordon Olson; her father, Fredrick Wagner; and her mother, Dorothy Wagner. She is survived by her brother, James Wagner and his wife, Eileen; sister, Linda Griffin and her husband, Michael; brother, Steven Wagner and his wife, Sheila; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish her memory.

Dorothy Lee Olson's legacy of faith-filled service continues to inspire all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort and peace to those whose lives she touched. A Memorial Service will be held at Dottie's home church Calvary Chapel on July 18, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Calvary Chapel, 20722 Timberlake Rd., Lynchburg, VA.

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Published by The News & Advance on Jul. 11, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Dorothy Olson

4 Entries

Debbie Barker

July 17, 2025

Dottie was a Ray of Sunshine to those who knew her. I was privileged to call her my friend, to spend time with her being fun & a blessing at the same time. She was genuine & consistent in her faith. I have some precious memories with such a dedicated Christian. She will definitely be missed but knowing she is with her Lord is nothing short of wonderful. We´ll see you soon, Dottie

Pat Mcintosh

July 17, 2025

I am thankful for the opportunity to have called Dottie my friend and dear sister in Christ. Dottie demonstrated a strong faith in the Lord God and faithfully searched scripture for His will for her life. Many times throughout our friendship the Lord God used Dottie to minister to me. I will miss our good conversations that often led to hearty laughter. I considered it a privilege that I was able to minister to Dottie during her stay at Runk and Pratt.
We love you Dottie and are eternally thankful you are now rejoicing with our precious Lord and Savior.

Shelley seibert

July 11, 2025

I am so glad to hear that dottie is no longer suffering and has escaped the confines of her body and the nursing home. She is having an amazing time now. She was a good friend to me, even tho we have not been able to see much of each other for the last 15 years. I am thankful to have counted her as a friend.

Gladys kapande

July 11, 2025

Thank you for saving Zambia. May God bless the family ;

you are an angel for our country Zambia.8049746550

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