Dorothy Chatman

Dorothy Chatman, an esteemed educator and cherished matriarch, departed this life on January 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Born into the loving embrace of her parents, Monroe and Alice Williams, Dorothy was destined for greatness. After completing her education at Rosa A. Temple High School in Vicksburg, Mississippi, she pursued a path of academic excellence at Alcorn State University, where she earned her B.S. degree in elementary education. Her quest for knowledge and impact did not stop there; she furthered her studies with a Master’s degree from Mississippi Valley State University, followed by certifications in Administration & Supervision at Delta State University, culminating in her Education Specialist Degree from the same institution.

Throughout her remarkable career, Dorothy devoted over 44 years to the Greenville Public Schools, influencing the lives of countless students, teachers, and community members. She began her illustrious journey as a teacher at Melissa Manning and Sussie P. Trigg Elementary, where her passion for teaching blossomed in the hearts of her young pupils. Her unwavering dedication to education eventually led her to the role of principal at Lucy Webb Elementary, a position she held with great honor until her retirement in 2010. It was during her tenure that she garnered numerous accolades, including frequently being recognized as Teacher of the Month, as well as earning the distinguished titles of Teacher of the Year and Administrator of the Year.

Beyond the classroom, Dorothy's love for teaching and learning was not merely a profession; it was an integral facet of her identity. Her spirit of inquiry extended beyond educational walls, and she nurtured her zeal by working part-time as a sales associate at Sears Roebuck for 15 years, demonstrating her versatile talents and commitment to service.

Dorothy’s profound influence also blossomed at home, where she is survived by her three adoring daughters: Paula Cole of Glenn Heights, TX; Gwendolyn W. Jones (Frederick Jr.) of Raymond, MS; and Vicki Malcolm of DeSoto, TX. Additionally, she was the proud grandmother of five, including Marcus Williams of Newport Beach, CA; Jennifer Cole of Glenn Heights, TX; Derek Bradley Jr. of Dallas, TX; Jonathan Mc Cray of Glenn Heights, TX; and Matt Jones of Raymond, MS. Her legacy extends into the next generation, as she delighted in the role of great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren: Kairyn Woodard, Khade Rousseau, DaCorlyn Bradley, Logan Taylor, Kassidy Bradley, and Kaine Bradley, all of whom carry her spirit forward.

Dorothy’s family relations encompass a vibrant network of ten siblings, including Ida Mae Williams, Helen Collins, Frankie R. Brown, Johnny L. Williams (Pam), Carl E. Williams (Brenda), Janice M. Williams, Don C. Williams (Sharon), Michael L. Williams, Feli K. Buggs (Tonnie), and Lori A. Johnson (Terry), each of whom created cherished memories alongside her that will long endure.

While Dorothy’s departure leaves an unfillable void, she is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Willie Chatman Jr., her sister Elmira Williams Thompson, and her brother Monroe Dixon Williams Jr., all of whom she holds dear in the annals of her cherished reminiscences.

The celebration of Dorothy’s life will be held with honor and reverence. Visitation will take place on January 31, 2025, from 1:00  to 6:00 PM at C J Williams Mortuary Center, with family being present from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, in Vicksburg, MS. Following this, a Celebration of Life will be conducted on February 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Bright Morning Star Church, where friends and family will gather to reminisce, reflect, and celebrate the indelible impact she had on all who knew her.

Dorothy Chatman was, and always will be, a beacon of wisdom, kindness, and strength, undoubtedly making this world a better place through her unwavering commitment to education and her loving presence in the lives of her family and friends. Her memory shall endure in the hearts she touched and the minds she inspired.