Dorothy Elizabeth Kennedy Richardson

Dorothy “Dot” Elizabeth Richardson, aged 85, passed away peacefully in her sleep in the early morning hours of Sunday, August 12, 2018, at the home of her daughter and son-in-law. Both daughters, Judy and Debi, were at her side as she departed this world to be in the presence of her Lord and Savior, fully restored and free from discomfort. Dorothy was born March 10, 1933, in Norfolk, Virginia to Joseph and Nellie Kennedy. She resided there until attending and graduating from Southeastern Bible College, now Southeastern University, in Lakeland, Florida. Upon graduating, she married her true love, William C. Richardson who preceded her in death four years ago. She is survived by a sister, Diane Brinkley of Zuni, Virginia; daughter Judy and Tim Stelman of Virginia Beach, Virginia; and daughter Deborah “Debi” and Jack Hicks of Lakeland, Florida, who lovingly cared for her in their home until her passing. Additionally, she leaves four grandchildren to cherish her memory; Benjamin Jones, Brittain Jones, Catherine Stelman, and Joseph Stelman. Dorothy came to know the Lord as a child and touched many people throughout her life, though her ministry was often behind the scenes enhancing what others did. This was exemplified as she served alongside her husband in his pastoral and teaching ministries. In the truest sense, she was “the wind beneath his wings.” In their ministry together, they served at the Assemblies of God churches in Cookeville, Tennessee; Sumter, South Carolina; Anderson, South Carolina and Winter Haven, Florida. In this work, Sister Richardson was creative and versatile. She took on secretarial responsibilities, wedding and funeral directing, children’s ministry, banquet planning, and much more. She had a caring ability to counsel one-on-one with those needing a tender shoulder or a spiritual word of guidance. These talents extended to the years of service at Southeastern University where Dr. Richardson ministered. During her life she was a talented floral designer, artist, poet and photographer. She was a member of the Imperial Polk Genealogical Society. Above all, she cherished her roles and will be remembered as a caring wife, mother, and grandmother. The viewing service will be held Thursday, August 16, 2018, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Heath Funeral Chapel, 328 S. Ingraham Avenue, Lakeland, Florida 33801. The funeral service will be held on Friday, August 17, 2018, at 10:00 AM at First Alliance Church, 1919 Edgewood Drive with interment following at Oak Hill Burial Park.