Dorothy McGowan Paul

October 21, 1929 - February 23, 2020
Dorothy McGowan Paul

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Dorothy Marie McGowan Paul 90, of Wilmington, NC passed away peacefully at her home Sunday, February 23, 2020, with her family at her side.

Dorothy was born in Wilmington on October 21, 1929, the daughter of the late Stacy and Alice Inez Stansell McGowan. She was also preceded in death by brother Donald and sister Patricia, and granddaughter Rebekah Gentry.

Dorothy grew up in Wrightsville Beach and graduated from New Hanover High School. She received her nursing degree from Cape Fear Community College and went on to be a home health nurse for the New Hanover County Health Department for 25 years. She served many years as a Brownie and Girl Scout leader. She was a founding member on the Unity Christ church in Wilmington and later rejoined the Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by four daughters, Deborah Paul, Shelley P. Slusser and husband John, Nannette Paul, Lucretia P. Newkirk. She also had three grandchildren, Krishna Williams and husband Paul, Leah Bullard and husband Dayle, Lauren Leggett, and five great-grandchildren, Emily and Walker Williams, Vann and August Bullard, and Cameron Leggett, Niece Kristin Duncan and husband Ben, great-nephew Noah, and Dylan Duncan, nephew Brad McGowan and his children Victoria and Cameron.

She was passionate about her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren who brought her much joy.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 PM Thursday, February 27, 2020, at Wilmington Funeral Chapel. Pastor Jay Young will officiate the service. Graveside service will be at St Andrews Episcopal church immediately after the funeral. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dorothy’s memory to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Please share memories or condolences to the family by clicking the “Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403.

910.791.9099

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  • February 26, 2020
    Brett Strandquest Marlar and Terry Wayne Marlar says:
    Dorothy was such a Beautiful Woman inside and out. We are hoping that God gives all of you Peace during this time of sorrow. Just remember you will see her again in Heaven.

  • February 27, 2020
    Sue Lou says:
    I’m sending all you girls my heartfelt love and prayers. Dorothy was one of the first truly spiritual lights to set an example for me as a young person. She lived it, always having a place to rest and a home cooked southern meal ready at the kitchen table. Thank you for your loving kindness.

  • February 27, 2020
    Marie Paré says:
    One of the most gentle women I have ever met. She wore a constant smile and a soft demeanor that touched many people's lives. May her family take great joy in having her as a mom, grandma, aunt, etc. Love on your ongoing, Dot!

  • February 27, 2020
    Ricky Meeks lit a candle:
    Lit since February 27, 2020 at 2:31:52 PM

  • March 04, 2020
    Terry Alyce Strandquest Wynne says:
    Girls, Your Mom was a kind and generous lady who I have fond memories of since my childhood (with my Mom and Madeline)… Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers... Lifting you and your family up in prayer, thanking the Lord for making good on His promises of eternal life in His Kingdom. I ask the Lord to give your family the peace, love, and strength you all so dearly need at this time. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen...