of Helena, AR
January 3, 1920 - August 17, 2015
Dorothy Weiner Umfress, daughter of Max and Ida Weiner and lifelong resident of Helena-West Helena, Ark., died August 17, 2015 from complications of heart disease.
She leaves her daughter, Dorothy Etheridge and her husband, Julian, of Hayesville; her son, Jim and his wife, Karen, of Memphis, Tenn.; five granddaughters, six great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
Her husband, J.C. and daughter Joan preceded her in death as did her six siblings, Isador, Bert, Ruth, Selma, Jane and Max.
Born on Beech Street on Jan. 3, 1920, she lived at that residence until her death. Dorothy was known as ''the mayor of Beech Street.'' Her love of Helena, its history and Beech Street, was well known throughout the community. She could entertain for hours with wonderful and delightful stories. She was ever optimistic and hopeful that Helena would someday soon be as prosperous as it was in her early years.
She always said that she wished she was 20 years younger so that she could help with the current revival of Cherry Street and the downtown area.
Dorothy retired from AP&L in 1982. She served as president of the American Cancer Society and the American Legion Auxiliary for many years.
Dorothy was a lifetime member of Temple Beth El. For the past 10 years, she has been a devoted and entertaining docent at the Helena Museum, a perfect fit for her knowledge and enthusiasm of Helena and its history.
Funeral services will be private.
Memorials may be sent to Helena Museum, 623 Pecan St., Helena, AR 72342; KIPP School, 415 Ohio St., Helena, AR 72342, or the Institute of Southern Jewish Live, P.O. Box 16528, Jackson, MS 39236.
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9 Condolence(s)
Jeannie Turley
Friday, August 28, 2015
I will miss my friend and history professor, Dorothy Umfress. She was one of the most interesting and smartest women I've ever met. She always had interesting stories, and I loved listening to her tell them. She loved her children, and I am so sorry for your loss. I will surely miss her smile and wisdom.
Lynn Miller Ross
Thursday, August 27, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and the community. Dorothy was an amazing individual who will be missed every day. She and my Mom, Lorraine, were friends for many years and she demonstrated such kindness and love, always. Visiting Dorothy during her hours in the Helena Museum was a treat. She was a scholar – historian, sharing the history of Helena-West Helena with travelers and local community members. Our family will treasure her memory.
Barbara King
Monday, August 24, 2015
Today and always I'll remember Ms Dorothy's smile and kindness, and I feel lucky that I had the pleasure of knowing her. Our community has lost a very special person. God bless you all today and the days to come.
judie R Akin
Monday, August 24, 2015
Goodbye my Dearly Beloved friend, wonderful to have know such as sweet, true LADY. Rest in Eternal peace, till we meet again! Peace to All who Loved Ms Dorothy!
Evelyn Griffin
Friday, August 21, 2015
Helena has lost a wonderful lady. She loved her home town and loved sharing it's history to anyone that would listen. She was a great friend and I will miss her.
Barbara McLendon
Friday, August 21, 2015
Dorothy was a wonderful Southern Lady..
She will be missed very much...
Linda Jane McIntosh
Friday, August 21, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss. Your dear Mother was an awesome lady and I know you will miss her greatly. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the coming days. Take Care and God Bless.
Hugs,
Linda Jane
Pat Hardy
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Dorothy and Jimmy
Have good memories from working with Dorothy, she was always good at anything she did.
Watching you'll grow up was always pleasant.
Thinking of you'll during this sad time.
Pat
Marjorie Beto and Phyllis Stiefel
Thursday, August 20, 2015
I have the fondest memories of Aunt Dorothy. I would run across the hot brick street and visit all of you. She lived such a long and full life. â¤ï¸â¤ï¸ My love and sympathies to your family.
Love you Marj and Phyllis