Dorothy Nell "Dot" Fields

1930 - 2023

AUSTIN - Dorothy "Dot" Nell (Sartin) Fields was welcomed into heaven, Sunday, June 18, 2023, in Austin, Texas surrounded by her family. Dot was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 70 years, Johnnie Charles Fields, and her parents, Miles Claude Sartin and Ruby Alice Sartin.

Dot was born in Austin, Texas, on July 24, 1930. She was the fourth of five girls, born to Claude and Ruby Sartin. Her sisters were Alta Mae (Sartin) Hill, Lucille Ella (Sartin) Brown, Jessie Louise Sartin, and her younger sister, Shirley Ann (Sartin) Evans. She grew up on Kinney Avenue in South Austin and attended Becker Elementary, Fulmore Middle School and Austin High School.

She met Johnnie Fields in 1950 at Congress Avenue Baptist Church. They married on December 16, 1950. At the time of their marriage, Johnnie was serving in the United States Navy and was stationed in Coronado, California. Dot joined him there, and their first child, Cynthia Ann Fields, was born. After Johnnie was discharged from the Navy, they returned to Austin and Johnnie completed his education at the University of Texas to become an architect. They welcomed their second child, Johnnie Charles Fields, Junior, (also known as Chuck), in Austin.

In 1955, they moved to Odessa, Texas and their daughter, Debra Lynn Fields, was born. While in Odessa, Johnnie's architectural business grew and flourished. Johnnie always considered Dot to be his number one promoter as she provided an active social and community life as his business expanded throughout West Texas. Dot was active in several activities through their church, Crescent Park Baptist Church, as well as the Contemporary Study Club, Junior League of Odessa, and Midland/Odessa Symphony Guild. She was also active in playing tennis and golf and excelled at both. She was known to have a mean forehand! She enjoyed entertaining and loved hosting parties, showers, and bridge club in her home. Dot certainly had the gift of hospitality as she always made those around her feel welcomed and special. She had a contagious laugh and sparkling personality.

Dot and Johnnie moved back to Austin in 1983, and she became highly involved in the Lakeway community. She and Johnnie were active members of the Lakeway Church, the Hills Country Club, and various bridge and dinner groups. Dot was known fondly by many nicknames. She was "Nellie" to her husband, Johnnie, "Mom" to her three children, "Mimi Dot"/"Nana" to her grandchildren, "Aunt Nell", or "Aunt Dot", by many nephews and nieces, "Dot" or "Dottie" by many dear friends and acquaintances. All these names were terms of endearment for one special lady. Dorothy means "Gift from God." Dot was strong in her Christian faith and stayed active in numerous Bible studies. She modeled this faith daily for her family and everyone around her.

She is survived by her three children: Cynde McClain and husband John of Trenton, NJ, Chuck Fields and wife Suzy of Austin, and Debbie Heatley of Marble Falls, grandchildren: Ferrell Fields Damen and husband Jason, Brock Fields and wife Sara, Cliff Holdridge and wife Amber, Chase Holdridge, Matt Holdridge, Step-grandchildren: Lauren Heatley McNeil and husband Matt, and Grant Heatley and wife Kelly, and many great great-grandchildren.

Dot lived an incredible life. She was a wonderful wife, terrific mother, loving grandmother to her many grandchildren and great grandchildren, and a loyal and devoted friend. A family graveside service and Celebration of Life took place July 21, 2023. Anyone wishing to honor Dot can make a donation to their favorite charity in her name. Dot will be greatly missed by all.