Dorothy Sue Kizer

Dorothy Sue "Dottie" Kizer, 91, of Mineola, Texas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Dottie was born December 8, 1934, in Fort Worth, Texas, to L.J. and Lottie Marie Freeman at Harris Hospital. As a young girl, she loved riding trains and enjoyed ballet and tap dancing-early signs of the joyful spirit she carried throughout her life.

She met Dan, her husband of 64 years, at the Mineola High School band hall. They were married on November 14, 1953, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in faith, love, and devotion. After graduating from Mineola High School and Tyler Commercial College, Dottie began her professional career at Houston Natural Gas and later worked in the advertising department for Lewis and Coker supermarkets.

Upon returning home to Mineola, she faithfully served her community as the elementary school secretary for 29½ years. As a member of the First Baptist Church in Mineola, Dottie served the Lord in the Middle School Church department, the Cradle Roll Nursery, and was active in Sunshine Sunday School department. Her love for her community was evident through her involvement with the PTA; Alpha Lambda Iota Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi; Caring and Sharing; Wood County Retired Teachers and School Personnel; and the Mineola Marine Corps League.Those who knew Dottie will remember her warmth, her grace, and the countless ways she made others feel cared for. Whether through a listening ear, a generous smile, or the steady love she gave so freely, Dottie leaves behind a legacy of compassion and quiet strength.

Dottie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dan; and her son, Daniel Mark Kizer. She is survived and cherished by her son, Craig Kizer and wife Karen; her grandchildren, Brandon Kizer and wife Charmayne, Krista Dabney and husband Travis, and Kara Kizer; her great-grandchildren, Alexis and Alayna Kizer, Kennedy and William Dabney; and her great-great-grandchild, Kolystn Stockton.

A beloved wife, mother, and Memaw, Dottie's legacy lives on through the generations of family who will cherish her memory always. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to share in her life. To honor Dottie's life and legacy, donations may be made to Toys for Tots, Hospice of East Texas, or to the charity of your choice. The family would also like to extend special thanks to Tisha and Sean Radney and Sandy Hooten for their love, friendship, and support.