Dana Kay McWhorter

Dana Kay Simons McWhorter of Alvin, Texas, 75, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, in Houston, Texas.

Born in September of 1950 and raised in Houston alongside 4 other sisters in a one-bathroom house, Dana grew up learning patience from an early age. She also developed a love for the outdoors and became an active member of the Girl Scouts. This continued even after she grew up by becoming a Troop Leader when her daughter followed in her footsteps.

After graduating from Stephen F. Austin High School, Dana began working at Entex in downtown Houston. It was during a lunch break there one day that she met the love of her life, Dub McWhorter. Their chance meeting grew into a marriage that lasted more than 50 years until his passing. Dana continued her career at Entex until the birth of her only child, Tammy, when she chose to dedicate all her time to her family.

After her daughter began going to school, she decided to volunteer at Mark Twain Primary School in Alvin, TX. What began as volunteer work blossomed into a fulfilling career as a Special Education Paraprofessional, a role she held with compassion and dedication until her retirement. Dana was admired for her kind and gentle spirit, her patience, and her willingness to help others.

She also found joy in the kitchen, where she was known for her cooking and baking talents. Her homemade pie crust, a recipe passed down from her mother, became a family favorite and a symbol of her love and care.

Dana was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dub McWhorter; her sister, Geraldine S. Martin; and her parents, Edith V. Simons and Gerald E. Simons. She is survived by her daughter, Tammy Pavalock, and her husband, Bryan Pavalock; her sisters, Annette S. Story, Lynn S. Blakeley, and Janet S. Wamsley and her husband Keith Wamsley, brother-in-law Michael McWhorter, and his wife, Nancy McWhorter; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Dana's life was defined by love, service, and kindness. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of compassion and warmth will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

A Celebration of life will be held in her memory. Date, Time and Location to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to The Special Olympics or The Christina Sullivan Foundation in her memory.