Dorothy Allen Young, affectionately known as "Dot Dot" to many who knew her, passed away on September 7, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.

She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, mother-in-law, and friend, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and service. Her family and friends lovingly remember her as having "a brilliant mind, a grounding faith, a determination to make the world a better place, loyalty to her many friends, and overwhelming love for her family." Dot Dot touched the lives of many with her heart, always ready to serve and love with open arms.

Dot Dot's faith and devotion were central to her life. She served faithfully as a Deacon and Teacher at First Baptist Church, Shelby. She taught Sunday School and Acteens for many years, and her joyful, selfless spirit was evident as she prepared countless meals for Vacation Bible School and Youth Group Trips, always along for whatever crazy ride was in store.

In 1994, she earned her Master's in Public Administration from UNC Chapel Hill, a testament to her lifelong love of learning and service. She spent 14 years as the director of volunteers at Cleveland Regional Medical Center, where her passion for helping others was deeply felt by all who worked with her. Earlier in her life, during the 1970s and 1980s, she ran a sewing shop called "CanePatch" in Marion Mall. Her creative talents and warm, friendly nature built a sense of community in that place and beyond, as she did many painting, quilting, knitting, Easter egg dying, baking, and crafting projects with her grandchildren and others. She also worked with Genesis, a Christian Music Group, doing administration and scheduling.

Dorothy is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Tom Young, whom she married on August 13, 1966; her daughter, Katie Young Graves, and husband Dana; her son, Blair Young; her sister, Judy Allen Byrum, and husband Johnny; her brother, David Allen, and wife Pam; her daughter-in-law, Bridget Young; her grandchildren, Luke Graves, wife Ann and son Levi; Remy Young, Allie Graves, and Thomas Young; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends whom she loved deeply and who loved her in return.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hal and Hazel Allen, and her brother, Jack Allen.

Her family and friends will forever cherish memories of her warmth, open-hearted hospitality, and infectious laughter. Dot Dot always worked to create spaces of comfort, and her smile could light up any room. Her love for her family and friends was boundless, and she leaves behind a legacy of joy, strength, and service.

A service will be held on Saturday, September 14th at 2:00pm at First Baptist Church in Shelby, NC in the Sanctuary, officiated by Rev Asher Panton and Rev Perry Holleman. The family will receive friends at 1:00 in the Sanctuary prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider donating to the Alzheimer's Association in Dot Dot's memory:

https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=digital_wallet_donations&df_id=39209&cybba=true

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.