Dorothy Robey Chesley of Dunn Loring, VA and later a beloved member of the White House, TN community, passed away peacefully on Sept 14, 2023. She was 97 years old.
Dorothy was born in Dunn Loring, VA where she excelled in music and later married her high school sweetheart, Emory W Chesley of Fairfax Station, VA, on March 3, 1945, during the midst of World War II. Their love story spanned several decades and states in which they lived, raising four children and traveling extensively together.
Dorothy used her exceptional musical talent as a pianist and organist in service to her Lord in every church she and Emory attended, leaving a lasting impact on those congregations. From accompanying a gospel quartet at Franconia Methodist Church, and accompanying the choirs in which Emory sang, to both singing in the Hendersonville Community Chorus once they moved to TN, they shared their passion for music as they did all things, together.
Dorothy and Emory were not only faithful church members all their adult lives but also founding members of Temple Baptist Church in White House, TN, where she was fondly referred to as “Ms. Dot”.
Their adventurous travels included driving the Alaskan Highway, visiting most of the national parks as well as spending a month in Maine in the midst of winter.
Dorothy is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Emory W. Chesley of Fairfax Station, VA.
She is survived by her loving family, including Curt and Yonnie Chesley of Franklin, TN; Gary and Deb Chesley of Cottontown, TN; Jay and Lisa Chesley of Mt. Juliet, TN; and Laurie and Randall Carter of Huntsville, AL. Dorothy’s legacy extends to her nine cherished grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.
Dorothy Robey Chesley will be remembered not only for her exceptional musical gifts but also for her devotion to her family and the manner in which she lived out her faith. She leaves behind a legacy of loving kindness and memories of her contagious laughter that will forever dwell in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
A memorial service to celebrate Dorothy’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at Austin and Bell Funeral Home in White House, TN. Family will receive visitors from 11 to 1 pm, service to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Temple Baptist Church Legacy Fund.
ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
For more obituaries visit https://robertsoncountysource.com/obituaries/
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