Dorothy Wallis

CLICK HERE TO WATCH DOROTHY'S FUNERAL SERVICE

     Dorothy Eunice (Bell) Wallis was born on October 27, 1939, to Chester and Cordelia (Poindexter) Bell at her family home in East Bend, North Carolina. She spent her early childhood attending elementary school in both Virginia and North Carolina. One of Dorothy’s favorite teachers was Ms. Miny Snoth, who would sometimes give her a ride home from school, a kindness she fondly remembered throughout her life. When Dorothy was younger, she dreamed of becoming a cosmetologist. After graduating from George Wythe High School in Wytheville, Virginia, she followed that dream and attended cosmetology school to become a beautician. After completing her training, Dorothy began working at a local beauty shop and loved her work.

     On June 26, 1958, Dorothy married Malvern Johnny Wallis of Mondamin, Iowa, at the Mount Pleasant Methodist Church in Wytheville. Following their marriage, they made their home in Mondamin, Iowa where Dorothy stayed home to be a wife and mother. She enjoyed gardening, spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and most of all, being surrounded by family. Dorothy especially cherished having family gather at her home for the holidays, with Thanksgiving and Christmas holding a special place in her heart.

     Dorothy died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at her son’s home in Woodbine at the age of 86 years, 10 months, and 16 days.

     Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; stepmother, Violet Bell; husband, Malvern; sons, Don Michael, Tim, and Jeff Wallis; sister, Maggie Pannell; and brothers, Barry, Charles, Ed, George, and Tommy Bell. She is survived by her son, Greg Wallis and his wife Bev; eight grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; brothers, Burton, David, J.C., Ronnie, Kenny, Gary, and Danny; sisters, Donna, Linda, and Robin; cousin, Dillon “Short” Rife; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will cherish her memory.