Dorothy Evans Mabley

Dorothy Mabley, formerly Evans, of Bloomfield Hills, passed away peacefully at the age of 99 on November 16, 2025. Dorothy, affectionately known as Dottie, was born to Daisy and Lewis Evans on February 25, 1926, in Terre Haute, Indiana. Her childhood was spent just across the Wabash River in West Terre Haute, where she was surrounded by a close-knit family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who all lived within blocks of each other. Dorothy graduated from Indiana State Teachers College, now known as Indiana State University.

Not long after her graduation, Dorothy met her future husband, Edward Mabley, through his sister. Their marriage lasted an extraordinary 70 years, until Ed's passing in 2019.

Following their wedding, Ed and Dottie relocated to Indianapolis as Ed pursued career opportunities. Dottie briefly worked for an architectural firm, a position she found immensely enjoyable, before she dedicated her time to family. Both became active members of Trinity Episcopal Church.

In 1965, Ed's career took them to Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, where Dorothy and Ed created new and lasting friendships while becoming involved as members of Orchard Lake Country Club and Christ Church Cranbrook. They both served as Sunday school teachers while Dorothy also was a member of the church's altar guild.

For three decades, Dorothy and Ed spent their winters in Scottsdale, Arizona, a place she developed a passion for collecting Native American pottery, turquoise jewelry, and concho belts. Among her prized possessions were two antique concho belts, which were eventually acquired by the Phoenix Heard Museum-a recognition that was a tremendous honor for her.

Dorothy embraced every adventure, whether traveling for Ed's work or for pleasure. Together, they explored destinations both across the country and around the globe. One memorable journey was an Alaskan cruise with her grandchildren, where she bravely took a helicopter ride to walk on a glacier. She also pursued genealogical heritage in the United Kingdom and France, visiting family roots long before it was popular.

Gardening and feeding the birds brought Dorothy great joy, and the beauty of her winter and summer homes' gardens reflected her talent. Another of her passions was wine; she delighted in learning about wines and sharing her knowledge with her older grandchildren. Dorothy was known for her strong opinions about wine service, always declining an ice bucket when dining out.

In her later years, while residing in senior living, Dorothy's wit and tenacity shone brightly. She became a role model; the physical therapist often named her as an example of dedication to daily walks. Dorothy also forged many new friendships with both residents and staff during her seven years there, leaving an enduring impression through her kindness and spirited presence.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Anne Miller (Jim), and her son, Ted (Elizabeth). She is also remembered by her grandchildren: Raymond Miller (Jamie), Jennifer Miller (Brenden Brietzman), Cameron Mabley, and Katherine Mabley. Her great-grandchildren, Owen, Kelsey, Sophia, and Evelyn, also carry forward her memory.

Dorothy's family will honor her life and legacy with a private service at a later time.

Those wishing to pay tribute to Dorothy are invited to make a contribution in her name to Christ Church Cranbrook, 470 Church Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 (christchurchcranbrook.org), or to a charity that is personally meaningful to the donor.