Dorothy B. Gilliam

Dorothy Arlease Byrd Gilliam was born on February 24, 1943 to Boozer Jasper and Dorothy Mae Spigner Byrd. Her mother made certain that she and her sister Beryle were raised as Christians. Dorothy was very active in church at Turner Memorial AME from a young age. She attended Syphax Elementary, Douglass Middle and graduated from Eastern High School in 1960 in Washington, DC. Dorothy enjoyed helping people so shortly after graduation she took classes and became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Dorothy, also affectionately known by friends and family as “Dottie,” “Dot,” or “Arlease,” moved to Atlanta, Georgia where she met Leonard Alton Gilliam, Jr. The two married on May 24, 1971 in Atlanta before moving to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. While in Florida, their first child Lisa Louise was born in May 1973. Dorothy continued to work as a nurse while in Florida until the couple moved back to her hometown of Washington, DC. Their second child, Darryl Emanuel Lee was born there in February 1975. Dorothy continued to remain active in church while diligently serving others as a nurse. However, she did not just attend church but had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. She and her late husband instilled those same Christian principles and values in their children. Dorothy would also meditate on the Word of God to help guide her while nursing at Freedman’s Hospital (now Howard University), St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Lorton Prison, and as a school nurse at Glenarden Woods Elementary and Skyline Elementary in Prince George’s County Maryland. Dorothy had many talents, and really liked gospel and Christian music. Besides being a “people magnet” who naturally drew others to her after one conversation, she also had a very good “ear” for music and a nice alto voice. Dorothy sang in choirs in the city such as Tri-Area Community Choir, the former Turner Memorial AME Celestial Chorale and various choirs at Cornerstone Peaceful Bible Baptist Church. Dorothy gave the words “lift every voice and sing” a wonderful meaning because she certainly enjoyed lifting her voice unto the Lord. Dorothy also loved to dance!! Dorothy, the biggest supporter of her children and grandchildren, was often seen at her daughter’s concerts, theater productions, speaking events and preaching engagements. She would also find time to support her son’s various sporting events. Dorothy was especially proud of her role as “Nana” to her “grands” Jason and Kellie. She took care of them with great love and care. At the end of the day, Dorothy could be found swinging with Jason and Kellie on their swing set, blowing bubbles or playing catch with her babies in the yard. She loved coming to their events and activities. Perhaps one of the things Dorothy will be remembered for is how she prayed for, encouraged and supported others’ endeavors. She was selfless with her time, gifts and talents and truly sought to serve God with her life. There is no doubt that Dorothy is in heaven dancing and praising God with a carefree attitude. Dorothy did not complain here on earth and it is certain that she is freely giving God all of her praise right now and singing in the choir with the angels in heaven! In fact, she was certain of what she planned on doing when she got there. “Birth is the beginning. Life is to be completed with your today and transitioning is my destiny. When/as you look upon this shell-I’ll be dancing before King Jesus my Savior and my Lord. It is here where I’ll have the best alto voice with the other angels. At last I’ll sing the solo part and the others will join in. HaHa. Since my voice is not above reproach. Oh incidentally, my dance has been perfected also watch me now-as I glide on the gold.” Written by me for you—Dorothy B. Gilliam Dorothy leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Lisa, son Darryl, daughter-in-law Doris, grand-children Jason and Kellie, sister, Beryle, nephew Cullen, great-niece Brittany, great-great nephew Daniel, and so many cousins, extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Boozer and Dorothy, and her husband Leonard.

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Dorothy B. Gilliam

February 24, 1943 - October 13, 2017