Ms. Dorothy Jean Ellerbe

BURIAL WILL BE PRIVATE!
Ms. Dorothy Jean McGinnis Ellerbe, affectionately known as Dottie or Dot, entered into eternal rest on
September 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on September 2, 1938, in Alachua,
Florida, she was the cherished firstborn of the late Arthur and Willobie McGinnis and the loving older
sister to five siblings, preceded in death by Betty Singleton.
Dottie graduated from Mebane High School in her hometown of Alachua and later furthered her
education at Santa Fe Community College. A woman of wisdom, warmth, and unwavering faith, she
devoted her life to service - both to her family and to her church.
She shared a beautiful life with her beloved husband, Willie Ellerbe, who preceded her in death.
Together, they raised three children: Willie Carlos Ellerbe (also preceded her in death), Jeanine
Carson, and Keith Ellerbe. Dottie's greatest joy was her family, and she lived each day in love, prayer,
and service to those around her.
In 1975, Dottie accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized - a turning point in
her life that would define her purpose and passion for years to come. Through her faithful example,
she led her husband and children to the Lord and continued to touch countless lives with her gentle
guidance and steadfast faith. She was a devoted and active member of her church, always finding joy
in worship, fellowship, and outreach.
Dottie dedicated more than three decades to the field of nursing, working at Shands Hospital and the
University of Florida's campus infirmary. She was known for her compassionate care, her calming
presence, and her tireless work ethic. Even in retirement, her nurturing spirit never dimmed.
To know Dottie was to be loved by her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and
spiritual devotion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Her life was a light - a guiding star of faith, love, and hope. She will be deeply missed, but we rejoice
in knowing she is at peace and in the presence of her Savior.
Dottie leaves to cherish her memories: her loving children, daughter Jeanine (James) Carson,
Brunswick, GA; son Keith (Panny) Ellerbe, Durham, NC; daughter Terrie Ellerbe, Alachua, FL; eight
grandchildren, Justin (Rebecca) Carson, Brunswick, GA; Ryan Ellerbe, Charlotte, NC; Lance Ellerbe,
Orlando, FL; Kristen (Brandon) Taylor, Raleigh, NC; Joely (Johnnie) Russell, Brunswick, GA; Brent
(Yngrid) Ellerbe, Winston-Salem, NC; Isaiah Ellerbe, Charlotte, NC, and Carlee Ellerbe, Tampa, FL;
six great grandchildren, Jenesis and Jaia Russell, both of Brunswick, GA; Caden, Braylon and
Michele Taylor, all of Raleigh, NC; Kataleya Wimbly of Gainesville, FL; two brothers, Earl (Cynthia)
McGinnis of Gainesville, FL and Barry (Bonnie) McGinnis of Killeen, TX; two sisters, Carol Nelson of
Gainesville, FL and Paula McFatten of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; and a host of loving nieces, nephews,
cousins and dear friends.
Resolutions may be sent to wecare@chestnutfh.com
BURIAL WILL BE PRIVATE!
Final and most sacred arrangements are entrusted to the professional care of Chestnut Funeral Home, 18 NW 8th, Ave, Gainesville, FL, 32601.