Dorothy May Carlson

Dorothy May (Hammond) Carlson, 89, passed away peacefully, in her home, Thursday, March 20, 2014. A member of the Poplar Bluff, Mo., community for 45 years, Dorothy was a very well respected and admired woman whose kindness touched everyone who met her. Mrs. Carlson was a Scout den mother, attended numerous school plays, performances and recitals, and had the flair to be able to whip up a unique costume out of almost anything. Her sweet smile, genuine compassion, infectious laugh, and strong belief in the power of prayer will be greatly missed, yet fondly remembered. Her daily devotions always included prayers for her family, friends, community, country, the world, and finally, herself. Throughout her eventful life, Dorothy held many important and interesting positions and careers. For instance, she once was the secretary for the Chief Justice of the Colorado Supreme Court, a real estate agent/broker, director of the Edgewood Children’s Home in Poplar Bluff, mental health advocate, clerk for the Poplar Bluff License Bureau, and most recently she was a valued member of the Daily American Republic newsroom. She was also involved with several community volunteer organizations, which include spending countless hours with RSVP and the Auxiliary division of Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. Mrs. Carlson was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan who would turn off the television when she disagreed with plays or calls. She was a formidable opponent when it came to Scrabble, and often stayed up until the wee hours of the morning with good friend Wilma Key, making words and counting points. Dorothy had a fantastic command of language and grammar, could figure arithmetic easily in her head, and had a fantastic sense of humor. Traveling, bird watching and finding beauty in all things were some of her favorite activities; however, she was most passionate about music. Dorothy loved to play her piano and organ, and all day long, a song was either whistled, hummed or sung by her. She participated in several community choir events, and was a cherished member of her church choir. Dorothy was a devoted Christian woman, dearly loved by the congregation of First Presbyterian Church of Poplar Bluff. She served as an elder, Sunday school teacher and held various positions in many of the church’s committees, including being the president of the Presbyterian Women’s Association. Mrs. Carlson was always willing to help with charitable contributions, lending a hand with meals and fellowship refreshments, sponsoring and praying for missionaries and even opened her home for memorable Easter egg hunts for the children of the church and community. Born May 16, 1924, to Matthew and Martha Hammond, Dorothy was one of seven children. She often spoke of growing up in Colorado, her favorite duty of bringing the cows back across Pinos Creek, and the escapades of her graduating class of 1943. Dorothy’s siblings are Ethel Mellott of Yuma, Ariz. and Soldatna, Alaska; and Matthew Hammond (Eva) of Colorado Springs, Colo., as well as her late brothers and sisters, Leslie and Francis "Joe", Velma and Etta Marie. Dorothy and the late Dr. E. C. Carlson moved to Poplar Bluff, Mo., around 1969. Mrs. Carlson took great pride in her family, and instilled the need to be gracious and respectful. She is survived by her children: David Carlson of Shreveport, La.; Lance Carlson of Republic, Mo.; Craig Carlson of Poplar Bluff; and Kerry (Carlson) Stites of Poplar Bluff. Joining her in Heaven are her son, Mark, and daughter, Robin Sue, who both passed away many years before. She loved and is loved by her grandchildren: Matthew (Monica) Carlson, Lindsey Carlson, and Allen and Matthew Bruce, as well as many nieces and nephews scattered across the globe. We, her family, are saddened by the loss of such an extraordinary and beautiful woman; however, we rejoice in knowing those who have been waiting to hug her in Heaven surround her. She is now singing alto with the Lord’s choir of angels, and will continue to watch over us from afar. Great appreciation goes to the caring nursing staff of Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center and Barnes-Jewish Hospital; Pyramid Home Health Care, Inc.; and Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home of Poplar Bluff. There will be a small, simple memorial service beginning at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at First Presbyterian Church of Poplar Bluff, followed by a graveside service at 3:30 p.m. at the Poplar Bluff City Cemetery on North Main Street. Pastor Debra Tracy will be in charge services. In lieu of flowers, her family requests donations be made to First Presbyterian Church in honor of Mrs. Dorothy M. Carlson.