Dorothy Jane (Martinek) McReynolds, age 78, passed away peacefully at her home in Neches, Texas, surrounded by love.  Born on August 25, 1947, in Sherman, Texas, Dorothy lived a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and joy.

Dorothy's life can best be described in five words: Faith, Family, Friends, Flowers and Fun.  In her 78 years, the good Lord blessed her abundantly with all five.  Up until the very end, she remained the same loving, kind, and selfless woman she had always been.  Her greatest wish was simply to be home in Neches with her beloved husband Charlie and her two puppies, Johnny and Buddy.

Dorothy was the definition of a devoted wife, mother, Memaw, sister, and friend.  What mattered most to her was her family, near and far, and especially her grandchildren.  She took great pride in being the very best Memaw she could ever be, never missing an opportunity to support, encourage, or simply be present.  She volunteered herself freely, whether someone needed help, a listening ear, or just "one more side dish" lovingly prepared for a gathering.

A proud graduate of S&S High School Class of 1965, Dorothy went on to attend Grayson College and raising her three children in Southmayd, Texas.  Throughout her life, she demonstrated strength, independence, and an unmatched work ethic and values which she passed down to her children and grandchildren.  Growing up, she could always be found on Lake Texoma on the weekends with a pair of skis, or at Mamaw and Papaw's playing cards and dominoes.  She was a constant presence at every sporting event or 4H event that Gary, Steven and Melissa were involved in, cheering loudly and loving fiercely.

Dorothy had many talents and passions.  She loved crafting, sewing, stained glass, cooking, gardening, and flower arranging.  She found joy in caring for livestock on the farm, tending her garden, and attending family gatherings, especially at the Fabers, where laughter was always plentiful.  She later applied her multitasking talents and dedication while working at Texas Instruments, Johnson & Johnson, and for 14 years with the City of Sherman Water Department.

Dorothy married the love of her life, Charles McReynolds, and together they shared 33 wonderful years of marriage.  They soon settled in Neches, where Dorothy embraced East Texas life fully.  She loved gardening, raising chickens, goats, and cattle, and managing the family's pecan orchard.  Her hands were never idle, and her heart was always open.

She taught her family to work hard, be independent, and take care of one another.  Most of all, she made everyone around her feel deeply loved, valued, and appreciated.  Her legacy will live on in the laughter she inspired, the meals she lovingly prepared, the lessons she taught, and the countless lives she touched.  Those who knew her will remember not only her generosity and strength, but also how much fun she was to be around.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Johnny (J.C.) Martinek and Frances (Phipps) Martinek; her eldest son, Gary Price; and her younger sister, Linda Martinek Howell.

She is survived by her loving husband, Charles McReynolds of Neches; her son, Steven Price and wife Lori of Bonham; her daughter, Melissa Arend Richter and husband Keye of the San Antonio area; her beloved bonus daughters, Shana McReynolds Hansen and husband Brian, and Sandra McReynolds Davis and husband Michael; all of Palestine; her sister, Shirley Matinek Jones of Austin, TX, her brother, Bobby Martinek and wife Delores of Southmayd; her cherished grandchildren, Chandler, Derek, William, Jessica, Grace, Noah, Ashley, Cole, Mason, Avery, and Lauren; and several nieces and nephews, all of whom brought her great joy.

Family night visitation will be held at Waldo Funeral Home in Sherman on Thursday, December 18, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 19, at 11:00 a.m., in the chapel of Waldo Funeral Home, with George Hendley officiating.  Burial will follow at Akers Cemetery on Highway 75 South.  A luncheon will follow at First Baptist Church in Dorchester.

Pallbearers will be Bobby Martinek, Wade Gomillion, Chandler Richter, Noah Richter, Mason Richter, Derek Price, Cole Hansen, and William Waldon.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart association at www.heart.org.