Emma Dorton

1936 - 2023

Emma Dorton
March 6, 1936 - July 14, 2023
Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina - Emma Louise Blatt Dorton passed away on July 14, 2023, with family by her side and a smile on her face. Louise was born March 6, 1936, in Oklahoma City, OK to Charles W. and Beula O. Blatt. Louise graduated from Wichita High School North – Wichita, Kansas in 1954. She received her B.A. in 1973 at Rutgers Douglass College and a Masters Degree in Library Service in 1974 at Rutgers University – New Brunswick, New Jersey. While married to Jackie M. Dorton (Ret. USAF) they lived in many places, including Kansas, New Jersey, Iceland, and California. Louise was strong willed and stubborn at times, but she also had an enormous heart and a wonderful sense of humor. She shared her passion and love of learning with everyone she met. She was active in several volunteer positions and held many part time jobs in libraries. She was actively involved in her children's lives from childhood to adulthood. Her inquisitiveness and curiosity spurred her love of international travels with friends. Visiting South America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Europe, Africa, Russia, and the Caribbean. Louise became the Library Director for Pemberton Community Library Association, NJ until 1979; Johnson City Public Library, TN until 1989; Darlington County Library, SC until 1996 and retired from the Granville County Library System, NC in 2006. She was listed in the Who's who of American Women, 1993-1994. After retirement, Louise made many treasured friends, enjoying dancing, cycling, book clubs and traveling. Her volunteer duties have included the Five County Community Collaborative board, Meals on Wheels, Friends of the Granville County Library System, Guardian ad Litem and mentoring children. Louise is survived by her daughters, Brenda McGowan (Eddie), Janet Spencer (Scott), Dana Umstead (Rick); and her son, Kenneth Dorton (Lisa). Grandchildren; David, Brian, Ashley, Sara, Brad, Alison, Brandi and Jennifer. 12 Great Grandchildren, 3 Great Great Grandchildren, and best friend, Sheila Hubbard of Johnson City, TN. She will be remembered by many friends that she made throughout her life. She was predeceased in death by her parents; her brother, Jessie Ramon Blatt; her mother's twin sister, Bertha Blatt Gordon; and dear friend, Bill Johnston. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 23, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Thomas Funeral Home, 401 N. Ennis Street, Fuquay-Varina. Thank you to her friends and neighbors that have been so special to her. I wish I could name you all! Thank you for all the care received from UNC hospital staff and Thomas Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to a library of your choice or the African Library Project.