Dorothy Ellen "Dot" Wheat

Dorothy Ellen "Dot" Wheat, age 73, of Smyrna, Delaware, passed away on Friday, June 23, 2023 at Pinnacle Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Smyrna, Delaware.
She was born on November 30, 1949 in Philadelphia, PA the daughter of Harold and Margaret Carey.
Dot, affectionately known for "Don't call me Dorothy," was a free-spirited nomad who never stayed in one place for too long. Her adventurous nature took her to various states, including PA, MD, DE, NJ, MS, FL, and IL, where she formed lasting connections with many people and left a positive impact on their lives.
Throughout her lifetime, Dot held a diverse range of jobs, showcasing her versatility and adaptability. She started the grassroots Marital Abuse Project of Delaware County, which later became a county funded program known as the Domestic Abuse Project. She was the executive director for nine years. For several years, she worked in the field of Children and Youth services. She was an entrepreneur as the owner of a cleaning business, excelled in insurance sales, worked as a prison guard, displayed her driving skills as a delivery driver, managed a restaurant, and even had the unique experience of being a bus driver at Disney World and a school bus driver. Dot's remarkable abilities allowed her to conquer any challenge that came her way.
However, Dot's fiery spirit and unwavering determination are what truly defined her. She will forever be remembered for her strong will and the indelible mark she left on our hearts. Dot lived life on her own terms, doing exactly what she wanted until the very end.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son Joseph Pszenyczniak, infant daughter Mary Pszenyczniak, grandson Evan Tyler Wheat, and her son in law James G. Williamson.
She is survived by her children, Dana Oliphant (Timothy), Anne Emme Williamson, and John Pszenyczniak (Marie). Her sisters Francis Colio (Steve), Ceil Ross, and Peg Moderski (Bob). Her grandchildren Scott Williamson (Kaitlyn), Jami Sybesma (Deva), Sean Gaffney (Kasey), Matthew Mulligan (Heather), Mark Jalowenko, Katherine Salgado (Jaisel), Devin Gaffney (Hannah Folke), Dystany Rich (Jerren), Joseph Pszenyczniak, Jr., Gabriel Pszenyczniak, Anastasia Pszenyczniak, and Kimberly Oliphant. Her 14 great grandchildren whom she deeply loved, and many, many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
As we mourn the loss of Dot Wheat, we cherish the memories we shared with her and hold her close in our hearts. Her legacy will continue to inspire us to embrace life fearlessly and live with passion, just as she did. May she rest in peace.
A celebration of life for Dot, together with her son Joseph, is planned for Monday, July 24, 2023, from noon to 3pm, at the Glasgow Pines Clubhouse, 801 Scotland Drive, Newark, DE 19702. All who knew her are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in her memory.