Dorothy Jean Sandlin

March 22, 1927 - January 2, 2013
Dorothy Jean Sandlin

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Dorothy Jean Sandlin, 85, of Wilmington passed Wednesday January 2, 2013 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

Dot was born in Chicago, Illinois March 22, 1927 the daughter of the late Charles and Edna Moran Stephens, III. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Virginia Gribble.

She came to Wilmington in the mid 1950s and was the first gift shop manager at the USS North Carolina Battleship. She then went on to work for the Hilton Riverfront. Before her retirement she was the front desk manager of Whitey’s El-Berta Motor Inn for more than 20 years. She was a longtime member of Residents of Old Wilmington. Along with her volunteer work in the historic district of Wilmington, she was also a pioneer in the restoration of historic homes.

Surviving are daughters Sandra Malpass and husband Billy of Currie, Diane S. Grimes and husband John of Leland, three grandchildren Avery Gray and wife Laura, Brandy Bell and husband Matt, and Daniel Williams II, seven great-grandchildren Dominic, Katelyn, Aidan, Amari, Kiernan, Logan, and Zander. Also surviving are a very special niece Nancy Faye Craig and a special “son” Marlon McDaniels.

Visitation will be held Saturday January 5, 2013 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, Village Road Memorial Chapel in Leland.

Graveside Services will be held at Oleander Memorial Gardens at 11:30 AM.

Memorial Contributions can be made to an animal rescue charity of one’s choice.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, Village Road Chapel, 535 Village Road, Leland, NC. 28479. 910.383.3511


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  • January 04, 2013
    Janet K. Seapker says:
    It was with great sadness that I read of Dot's death. I sit on the Historic Preservation Commission and remember faithful Dot monitoring each meeting for the Residents of Old Wilmington. She was such a sweetie. I am sorry she has gone and know you will miss her terribly. Janet K. Seapker

  • January 03, 2013
    Gareth Evans says:
    The condolences of all at the Bellamy Mansion go to Dot's family and many friends. She was a volunteer here for many years and took a great interest in downtown Wilmington and preservation. She'll be much missed in the community.

  • January 03, 2013
    Scott Garner says:
    Diane, John and Kids. My deepest sympathies on the loss of your Mother and Grandmother. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Scott

  • January 04, 2013
    Pat Neely says:
    So sorry for your loss Dianne and all. My Prayers are with you all.

  • January 03, 2013
    Julie Saltsgaver says:
    Thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.