10/27/2026
Dortha Marie "Mrs. Dot" Free, 81, of Paragould, departed this life peacefully on Monday, October 26, 2026, after a long and fulfilling journey marked by love, dedication, and a profound commitment to her family and community.
Born on March 4, 1945, in Paragould, to the late John and Lola Barnes, Dortha was a proud graduate of Oak Grove High School, class of 1963. She married the love of her life, Jimmy Free, on June 1 of the same year, and together they nurtured a family grounded in love and strong values. Dortha dedicated over 33 years of her professional life as a secretary for the Greene County Tech School District, where she touched the lives of countless students and colleagues. Known affectionately as "Mrs. Dot," she fostered an environment of kindness and support in her workplace, making a lasting impact in the lives of all who were fortunate to know her.
Beyond her career, Dortha was a woman of many passions. An avid hunter and fisherman, she often claimed with playful pride that she enjoyed more success in the field than her husband. Her nurturing spirit extended to the earth itself, as she was known for cultivating one of the largest gardens in the area and passionately canning the fruits of her labor. Together with Jim, she operated a berry farm for many years, sharing the bounty with family and friends. Dortha's culinary skills were legendary within her family, with her butter roll, homemade chicken and dumplings, and Christmas candy remaining among the cherished recipes that will be passed down through generations. Her family dinners were unmatched, not only for their delicious flavors but also for the love with which they were prepared-always enough to provide delightful leftovers for the next day.
In her quiet moments, Dortha found joy in quilting and diamond painting, pursuits that reflected her creativity and attention to detail. She was a dedicated birdwatcher, doting on the many birdhouses she decorated her property with, near 50 of them, particularly enjoying the vibrant presence of cardinals that frequented her yard.
Some of Dortha's greatest joys were found spending time at Lake Norfork, a cherished retreat for her and her husband. Together, they built a home by the lake where they created countless memories, enjoying the serenity of nature, skiing, bird watching, and making lasting memories with family and friends.
As much as she loved all of these things, nothing compared to the love she had for her family.
Dortha's warmth and love knew no bounds. She was a one-of-a-kind MeMaw, creating countless memories with her grandchildren, taking them on adventures across the country. She delighted in teaching them to cook and sew, sharing the simple joy of feeding squirrels Cheetos and hunting sand dollars along the shoreline. She made sure every moment spent with family was a memory to be cherished forever.
Dortha leaves behind a loving family, including her devoted husband of 63 years, Jimmy Dale Free; her son, Kailen Free; her daughter, Pamela (Ted) Foster; her grandson, Andrew Prince of Little Rock; her granddaughter, Amanda (Matt) Norwood of Leachville; her great-grandson, Cypress Norwood; her great-granddaughter, Willow Norwood; her brother, Wendell Barnes; several nephews, nieces, and cousins; and the numerous students, faculty, and administration who loved her dearly over the years. She was a beloved matriarch whose warmth and unwavering love will be profoundly missed. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Walter Barnes; and sister, Truley Mangrum.
A celebration of Mrs. Dot's life will take place on Friday, October 30, 2026. A visitation will be held from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at Grace Temple Missionary Baptist Church. The funeral service, honoring the life and legacy of Dortha Marie Free, will commence at 11:00 am with Bro. Dave White and Bro. Royce Boling officiating. Burial will follow in Greene County Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Andrew Prince, Amanda Norwood, Gary Baldwin, Chris Jetton, Rudy Hufford, and Tim Wooldridge.
May her soul find everlasting peace, and may the memories and legacies she leaves behind continue to inspire love and kindness in the hearts of all who knew her.
