Dorothy Mae McGee-Barton was born on August 26, 1944, in Chinquapin, Duplin County, North Carolina, to the late James Owen McGee and Annie Mae Whitley-McGee. Dorothy later moved to Boston, Massachusetts, where she attended Girls’ High School. It was there that she began taking seamstress classes and discovered a talent she would carry with her throughout her life. She enjoyed showcasing her creations in school fashion shows and continued using her gift of sewing for many years, making clothing for her children, family, and friends.

Dorothy later met the love of her life, Andrew E. Barton, and raised four daughters: Gwendolyn, Norma, Gaynelle, and Della.

Later in life, Dorothy returned home to North Carolina, where she attended First Missionary Baptist Church and worked in the farming industry. Dorothy knew how to enjoy life. She loved to “get up off of that thang” and have a good time dancing with family and friends, especially when her favorite artist James Brown was playing. She treasured time spent with those close to her, including her godbrother, James-Van, and her dear friend, Minnie Mae.

 Her love of sewing also remained with her throughout the years, as she continued sharing that gift with the people she loved.

Dorothy leaves to cherish her loving memory, four daughters, Gwendolyn McGee-Brown, Norma McGee, Gaynelle McGee, and Della McGee; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and a host of family members, loved ones, and friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared with her.

Dorothy will be remembered by her love of family, her creativity, her joyful spirit, and her ability to bring life to the room.