Dorothy Juanita Chavis Ballard (Miss Dot)

Dorothy Juanita Chavis Ballard (Miss Dot), born October 17, 1934, in Ft. Benning, Georgia, passed away on May 14, 2025. A respected member of her community and a devoted family matriarch, Mrs. Ballard leaves behind a legacy marked by her artistic talents, generosity, and deep commitment to her family and friends.

A life-long seamstress, Miss Dot took great pride in her craft, pouring love and creativity into each stitch. Her professional journey included over ten meaningful years as an evening manager at Super Foods, where she was known not only for her leadership but also for the personal connections she fostered with both her colleagues and patrons.

Mrs. Ballard was a graduate of Tallassee High School, Class of 1953, where she began to cultivate her passion for gardening and community service, which later flourished throughout her life. As a member of the Tallassee Garden Club and the Tallassee Red Hatters, she embraced both nature and fellowship. She also dedicated her time to volunteering for the Elmore Baptist Association and was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Tallassee. Here, she participated in the Dorcas Women’s Sunday School Class, the Women’s Missionary Union, and cherished her role in the church choir, demonstrating her commitment to faith and community.

Dorothy's family was her source of pride and joy. She is survived by her son, Chuck Ballard, and daughter, Kim McAteer. Her legacy continues through her grandson, Justin McAteer, and his wife, Lori, as well as her great-grandchildren: Charlie, Asher, and Remi McAteer. She also leaves behind her half-brother, Wayne Chavis, half-sister, Joan Santa Cruz, and sisters-in-law, Joann Chavis and Nita Croy, along with several nieces and nephews who hold fond memories of her.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of forty-four years, Billy Charles Ballard; her parents, George Washington and Flora Allene Collum Chavis; daughters, Gloria Fay Ballard and Dorothy Carol Ballard; sister, Betty Jean Meadows; brother, George Allen “Sonny” Chavis; half-brother, Robert “Bob” Chavis, half-sisters, Lavonne Jones and Karen Chavis and step brother, Fred Harris.

In a testament to her generous spirit, Dorothy donated her pacemaker to the My Heart-Your Heart program at the University of Michigan Health, exemplifying her lasting impact beyond her immediate community.

The family will receive friends, Monday, May 19, 2025, from 10:00 AM until service time at 11:00 AM, at the First Baptist Church located at 1279 Friendship Road, Tallassee, Alabama 36078. Dr. Trey Waldrop and Rev Derek Gentle officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.

All who knew and loved Miss Dot are encouraged to attend to celebrate her remarkable life and the many ways she touched the hearts of those around her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dorcas Women’s Sunday School Class, First Baptist Church, Tallassee.