Dorothy Swart

Dorothy Nell (Waller Dalsing) Swart, age 82, passed away on December 25, 2025, after a courageous and long-fought battle with rheumatoid arthritis and a series of strokes. Her passing marks the end of a life well-lived, one devoted to nursing, family, and service to others. A memorial service will be held on May 2, 2026, at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Port Arthur, Texas.

Dorothy was born on May 1, 1943, in Port Arthur, Texas, to Jesse Noble and Gladys Ann Waller. From an early age, she showed an unwavering dedication to caring for others. The loss of her father when she was just 11 years old left a deep mark on Dorothy, and it was then that she knew she wanted to dedicate her life to the nursing profession.

After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1960, Dorothy earned a full academic scholarship to the Baptist Hospital School of Professional Nursing, where she graduated as a Registered Nurse. She continued her education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington, followed by a Master of Business Administration from Amberton University in Dallas.

Dorothy's career in nursing spanned decades and touched countless lives. She began at Brookhollow Nursing Home in Grapevine, Texas, and went on to serve in numerous esteemed positions including at the Allen Clinic, Collin Memorial Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital, St. Paul Hospital, and Plaza Medical Center. She retired as Director of Medical Management from Harris Methodist Fort Worth. Throughout her career, Dorothy was known for her compassionate care, making house calls, piercing ears in her kitchen, delivering at least 50 babies and mentoring many fellow nurses. After retirement, Dorothy continued her life of service, working with Manos de Cristos and Drive-a-Senior in Austin. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field, Dorothy was honored by the Central Texas Nurse Honor Guard shortly before her death.

In 1963, Dorothy married Gene Dalsing, with whom she had two children, Koren Dalsing Bowie and Kent Dalsing. She later married Bob Swart, and together they enjoyed an active and fulfilling life of travel, skiing, scuba diving, and cherishing time spent with family and friends across the country. Dorothy was always the cool mom. Her home was always open to friends and family, with Koren and Kent's friends stopping by regularly to visit, whether or not the kids were there. She loved to sing, cook, dance, read and travel.

Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, stepfather Ray, her beloved husband Bob, her brother Donald Beavens and nephew Charles Beavens. Her daughter Koren and son-in-law Mark, grandson Jackson and his wife Allison, and granddaughter Elizabeth and her fiancé Graham survive her. Her son Kent and daughter-in-law Jenny, along with grandsons Christian and Ryan, also survive her. Dorothy also leaves behind her brother Richard Beavens and his wife Jean, as well as their daughter Marla, and sister-in-law Phyllis Beavens and her daughter Jan, who is also a nurse.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Cetura Guevera, the staff at Brookdale North Austin, and the team at Enhabit Hospice for their unwavering support and compassionate care during Dorothy's final days.

Memorial contributions in honor of Dorothy's legacy can be made to the Central Texas Nurse Honor Guard, or to the charity of your choice. Dorothy's life was one of service, love, and dedication, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.