Dorotha O. Wanamaker

Dorotha O. Wanamaker, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, in Channahon at the age of 91. Born on June 20, 1934, in Waverly, Tennessee, she was the daughter of Richard Scholes and Willie Wanamaker. Dorotha's vibrant spirit and kind-hearted nature touched the lives of all who knew her.

Dorotha was a proud graduate of Waverly High School and furthered her education in business management in Tennessee. Her drive and ambition led her to Illinois, where she found work and built a life she loved. Dorotha dedicated herself to homemaking for her children, later becoming a respected manager at a nursing home and then at a storage facility. Her work ethic and compassionate leadership left an indelible mark on her colleagues and those under her care.

Dorotha is survived by her loving son, Lee Wanamaker, and her daughter, Lynn (John) Bryant. Dorotha's role as "Nana" to her cherished grandchildren, Emily and Glenn Tooley, was her greatest delight, and she embraced every moment with them.

She is preceded in death by her father, Richard Scholes; her mother, Willie Wanamaker; her daughter, Dorothea Wanamaker, in infancy; her siblings, Gladys Durham, Iva Curtis, and Ron Scholes; and her best friend of over 54 years, Charleyn Daley.

Dorotha was a hummingbird fanatic. She found peace and tranquility in the simple joy of watching these graceful creatures. Her love for a good margarita, the comfort of McDonald's coffee, and the thrill of discovering new connections on Facebook were well known to her loved ones. An avid shopper, she kept Amazon bustling with her frequent and eclectic purchases. Dorotha was also renowned for her incredible Southern cooking, a talent that became the centerpiece of many gatherings.

Her strong faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her through good times and bad. Dorotha was the embodiment of selflessness, always placing the needs of others before her own. Those who knew her will remember a fun, quirky lady whose laughter and kindness could light up a room.

In keeping with her wishes, Dorotha would not want her friends and family to grieve but instead to celebrate her life. She would encourage everyone to enjoy a margarita in her memory, toasting to the love and laughter that she brought into their lives.

An online guestbook has been made for the family, where you may sign the guestbook, share memories and photographs. You can access this by visiting the website at www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL.