Dorothy “Dotti” Gilbert, 62, of DeSoto, Missouri, passed away at her home on July 7, 2026.
Born on March 2, 1964, in Festus, Missouri, Dotti was the daughter of the late Charles Gilbert Jr. and Loretta (Barteau) Gilbert. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Lori Ann Gilbert. She is survived by several cousins from Ohio and Indiana; her God‑daughter, Elena Elkins, who serves as a missionary in Scotland; dear friends from Florida; and a host of beloved friends throughout Missouri.
Dotti graduated from DeSoto High School in 1982 and continued her education at St. Louis Christian College, earning a Bachelor of Science in Christian Education in 1986. Her faith shaped her life, her work, and the way she cared for others.
Over the years, Dotti served in many roles, each one marked by her kindness and dedication. She loved working as a Youth Director at DeSoto Christian Church, substitute teacher for Sunrise School District, and since 2007 served as a substitute teacher or Paraprofessional for the DeSoto School District. No matter the position, Dotti approached her work with humility, joy, and a servant’s heart.
At school, Dotti was a blessing. She poured love and patience into the students of DeSoto, touching lives in ways that will never be forgotten. She welcomed new staff with warmth, celebrated small victories, shared stories that brightened the day, and brought happiness into every room she entered. Her coworkers describe her as genuine, compassionate, endlessly supportive, and someone who made their days better simply by being present.
Outside of the school setting, Dotti loved cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals. She enjoyed reading, watching movies, and spending time with friends. She had a gift for making ordinary moments feel special.
Dotti Gilbert was one of those rare souls whose presence made the world softer, kinder, and brighter. She made people feel welcomed, valued, and cared for; whether through a warm smile, a thoughtful message, or the way she always went the extra mile for students, coworkers, friends, and even strangers. Her kindness wasn’t something she practiced; it was simply who she was.
Though she is no longer with us, her memory lives on; in morning conversations, smiles in the hallway, Facebook messages, pride in her Chiefs, and the countless way she brightened the lives of those around her. Dotti is now in a place free from pain or worry, reunited with loved ones above, but her impact here will never fade.
A short graveside service will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery, DeSoto, Missouri, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at DeSoto Christian Church, 4151 Fountain City Road, DeSoto, Missouri, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11:00 with services to start at 11:30 a.m., with a light lunch provided.
Expressions of sympathy may be made by donating to DeSoto Christian Church at http://www.desotochristianchurch.org/giving or by texting GIVE to (833) 250‑9994.
May her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.