Celebrating the life of
Dorothy (Dotty) Armstrong
September 01, 1942 - January 13, 2026
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dorothy “Dotty” Armstrong. Dotty died on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, following a long illness, with her family and friends praying for her comfort and peace. She was born on September 1, 1942, in Savannah to the late Jesse J. Armstrong, Sr., and Louise Wynn Armstrong Bailey.
Dotty was preceded in death by her parents and by her sister, Wynn A. Creal. She is survived by her brother, Jesse J. Armstrong, Jr. (Judy), and her sister, Louise A. Grotheer. She is also survived by her nieces, Lea Wright and Beth Armstrong; her nephews, Jesse J. Armstrong III, Karl E. Grotheer (Mendy), Jeff Armstrong, and George C. Creal, Jr. (Casey); as well as several great‑nieces and great‑nephews. She leaves behind her beloved dog, Bobo.
Dotty grew up in Savannah and graduated from Savannah High School in 1960. A gifted dancer for many years, she was named first runner‑up for Miss Savannah in 1960 and was later crowned Miss Savannah. She went on to attend the University of Georgia before relocating to Atlanta in the mid‑1960s. During her years in Atlanta, Dotty built a successful career in the re‑insurance industry and remained active in a variety of pursuits, including rowing with the Atlanta Rowing Club. In 1999, she retired and returned home to Savannah.
Upon returning to Savannah, Dotty was deeply engaged in the local arts community and was an enthusiastic participant in the Mossy Oak Gun Club and the Lowcountry Annie Oakleys skeet‑shooting groups. Known for her generous and compassionate spirit, she also devoted herself to adopting senior rescue dogs, ensuring they were loved and cherished in their final days.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 noon. Interment will take place immediately thereafter at Hillcrest Abbey East, located at 1600 Wheaton Street.
Remembrances may be made to Renegade Paws Rescue, One Love Animal Rescue, or the Humane Society for Greater Savannah.
Dotty was our dear friend and neighbor for many years. We miss her and will always cherish our memories of her.
- Catherine and Ted Kostilnik , Savannah, GA
Sorry to see that Dotty has passed away. She was one of our crew at Armstrong. Lots of good times. May she Rest in Peace!
- Bob White, Greensboro , Ga
Several years ago we started hosting weekly gatherings, nicknamed Doggy Play Dates, for some special dogs and their humans including Dotty and Bobo. The dogs had fun romping in the yard while their humans enjoyed adult beverages and great conversation. We often celebrated birthays and other special events, which you can see in the attached photo. Dotty was a neighbor and a dear freind, and we will miss her terribly. May she rest in Peace!
- Kevin Smth and David Hatfield, Savannah, GA
We are so sorry to hear the sad news. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
- Shirley Reckling, Greer, South Carolina
Fond memories with Dotty. I crowned her Miss Georgia 60-61 in Savannah. She was my 1st runner up and I crowned her after I won Miss Georgia. A talented beautiful lady. Sending prayers of comfort
- Glenda Brunson Young, Atlanta, Ga
To The Family, Please Accept My Heartfelt Condolences. Truly the loss of a precious loved one is most difficult. Please find comfort in the promise our most loving Heavenly Father Jehovah God gives us in Revelation 21:4"And He will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more; neither will mourning; nor outcry; nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." Yes, We can look forward to a time soon to come when all suffering including death will be done away with forever. For more encouraging information from the bible. Please visit jw.org
- C. Anderson , Columbia, South Carolina
Our sincere condolences to all the family. Sending lots of love and hugs to you all during this sad time. Cherish the wonderful memories.
- Jim and Karen Blakewood, Savannah, Ga
Louise and Jessee, so sorry to hear about Dottie. Her friendship brought many people happiness.
- Bobby Thomas, Indian Springs Village, Alanama
Here is Dotty accepting the Miss Savannah crown.
- George Creal, Atlanta, GA
Our sincere condolences to all of Dotty's family from the McDevitts. We are devastated to hear this news. Dotty was a great friend of my mom's and so much fun. There was always a lot of laughter when they got together. So many memories of good times. May she rest in peace.
- Elizabeth McDevitt, Redwood City, California
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Visitation
- 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Sat, January 17, 2026
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
-
7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive (map)
Savannah GA 31406 - 912-352-7200
- Funeral Service
- 12:00 p.m. on Sat, January 17, 2026
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
-
7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive (map)
Savannah GA 31406 - 912-352-7200
- Burial
- on Sat, January 17, 2026
- Hillcrest Abbey Memorial Park
-
1600 Wheaton Street (map)
Savannah GA 31404 - 912-234-3458
