Dorothy "Dottie" Louise (Whitten) Garcia

Dorothy "Dottie" Louise Whitten Garcia of Columbus, GA, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at The Oaks at Maple Ridge on June 17, 2023, at the age of 92.

A private graveside service will be held at Parkhill Cemetery, according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA.

Born on June 7, 1931 to the late William Whitten and Mammie Padgett Whitten. She was the owner and director of the daycare Child Life Discovery Center. She was a member of The Church of the Holy Family. Dottie was known for her kind, generous, and spirited nature that left a lasting impact on her family, friends, and community.

Dottie dedicated her life to the care and education of children in Columbus, Georgia. For nearly 50 years, she was the owner and director of the Child Life Discovery Center, where she had a profound influence on the lives of countless children and their families. Through her unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment, Dottie's legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Dottie cherished the time she spent with her family. She loved traveling with her children and grandchildren, exploring new destinations and creating memories that will be treasured for years to come. Dottie's adventurous spirit led her to visit numerous casinos, where she enjoyed the excitement and camaraderie of the games. Her love for her family was evident in the way she always put their needs and happiness first.

Dottie also had a special place in her heart for her pet poodles, who brought joy and companionship to her life.

In her personal life, Dottie was known for her kind and generous spirit. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need, whether it was through her work at the Child Life Discovery Center or in her everyday interactions with family and friends.

Dorothy "Dottie" Louise Whitten Garcia leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication that will continue to inspire all who knew her. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the impact she had on her family and friends.

Rest in peace, Dottie, knowing that your memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved you.

Other than her parents she is preceded in death by her grandson, Andrew Medley.

She is survived by her son, Michael Garcia (Lisa) and their daughters, Mallory Hill (Jordan) and Sarah Garcia of Melbourne, Florida, granddaughters, Analisa Skumautz, Jennifer Parsley (Mark) of Harris County, GA, son, Rick Garcia (Cindy) and their daughter Ashley Bassett (Sam) of Columbus, GA, son, Rocky Garcia of Columbus, GA, daughter, Tina Garcia and her son, Derek Medley of Columbus, GA and daughter, Kristina Dial (Todd) of Salem, AL, great grandchildren, Aubree, Khloe, Capri, Keith, Scott, Rebekah, Tripp, Gabriel, Rhett, Ellie, Will, Madeline and Maddox.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to St. Anne Catholic Church.