Dorothy Jean Reynolds-Fleming

Dorothy Jean Reynolds Fleming, born on May 4, 1936, in Opelika, Alabama, to Robert Lilly Sr. and Mattie Lee Washington Lilly, peacefully transitioned on January 20, 2025, at the age of 88. As the second of seven children, Dorothy's early years were marked by dedication and resilience. She balanced her education with working in the cotton fields to support her family, ultimately prioritizing their needs by leaving school after the ninth grade to continue farming. In the early 1950s, the Lilly family relocated to Winter Garden, Florida, seeking new opportunities in agriculture. It was here that Dorothy's life began to blossom. She met Floyd Chester Anderson, with whom she had a daughter, and later married J.C. Reynolds, now deceased, with whom she was blessed with five additional children. The late 1960s marked a spiritual awakening for Dorothy as she embraced her faith and accepted the Lord Jesus Christ. Her enthusiasm was palpable; she became known for her spirited worship at Bay Street Church of God in Christ, dancing and shouting joyfully, much like her beloved mother. In 1971, seeking new horizons, Dorothy moved her family to Orlando, Florida, settling in the Carver Shores community. She joined Full Gospel Tabernacle Church, where her leadership in worship became legendary. Congregants often remarked how she "brought down the house" and "ushered in the spirit of the Almighty" with her powerful singing. Her anointed voice inspired many to clap and dance in the spirit, earning her the affectionate nickname, "Speedy Gonzalez," a testament to her energetic personality. Dorothy's generosity knew no bounds. Even when resources were scarce, she opened her home to feed the hungry and provided shelter to family and friends in need. Children in the community found in her a nurturing mother figure, and many sought her wise and spiritual counsel. She was known to "give the shirt off her back" to help anyone, embodying the essence of selflessness. Professionally, Dorothy worked diligently in the hospitality industry as a maid and later assisted prominent families by maintaining their homes and helping raise their children. One family, in particular, cherished her for over 30 years; their children viewed her as a mother figure and continued to visit her long after her retirement. Beyond her employment, Dorothy showcased her entrepreneurial spirit by selling household and clothing items at the Central Florida Flea Market. She also managed multiple apartment units, overseeing maintenance and rent collection with integrity and dedication. One of Dorothy's proudest achievements was receiving the "Satisfaction of Mortgage" for her home. Overwhelmed with joy, she often proclaimed, "This is my house. Me and Jesus bought this house, and I don’t owe nobody a dime on it." This accomplishment was a testament to her hard work and unwavering faith. However, Dorothy's greatest pride and joy was her family. She raised her children with firm yet loving guidance, instilling biblical principles and ensuring they were active participants in church activities. Her household was admired for its respect, discipline, and close-knit bonds. She often declared, "As for me and my house, we gon’ serve the Lord." Her dedication bore fruit as all her children graduated from high school and pursued further education, leading to successful careers and businesses. Her legacy is deeply rooted in strong family values anchored in faith. After the passing of her husband, J.C. Reynolds, Dorothy found companionship with John Fleming. They shared 12 years of marriage, attending church together until his passing in 2012. Dorothy became a member of Rhema Life and Deliverance Ministries in Orlando, serving as a missionary and on the Mothers of the Church Board. She was revered as a powerful prayer warrior, interceding for family, friends, and neighbors. Many believed she had a direct connection to God, as her prayers were often answered. When her church leaders transitioned to another state, Dorothy remained steadfast, supporting the new leadership that eventually became Life Focus Ministries. In 2017, as she faced the challenges of dementia and Alzheimer's, Dorothy became a resident at Guardian Care Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Even there, she continued her ministry, praying, singing, and sharing scriptures, bringing light to those around her. Dorothy was a beacon of light, illuminating every room with her laughter, smile, and boundless energy. She left an indelible impression on everyone she met, making them feel valued and loved. Her legacy of faith, generosity, and unwavering love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. Dorothy is survived by her: Four Daughters: Veronica Anderson (Karl) of Lake Mary, Florida, Jacquelyn Muse (Sean) of Sanford, Florida, Liquinda Crum (James) of Orlando, Florida and Kimberly Blackiston (Terry) of Lakeland, Florida. One daughter preceding her in death: Judy Reynolds of Orlando, Florida One Son: Dwight Reynolds (Kathleen) of Orlando, Florida. Stepson: Larry Reynolds of Ashburn, Virginia. Grandchildren: Negil Antwan Reynolds, Sr. (Ericka) of Apopka, Florida; John Oren Cummings (Lencola) of Perry, Georgia; Tellan Heyward (Latoya) of Mount Dora, Florida; Cola Anderson (Josie) of Baltimore, Maryland; Desmond Reynolds of Orlando, Florida; Ambres Marshall, of Orlando, Florida; Kayla Moore (Issac) of Orlando, Florida; Danielle Carr (Tyreak) of Sanford, Florida; Kristian Holden of Orlando, Florida; Hugh Anderson of Lake Mary, Florida; Morgan Muse of Sanford, Florida; Parker Crum of Orlando, Florida. Great Grandchildren: Eiyonna Walker, Negil Reynolds, Jr., and Eniya Reynolds of Apopka, Florida; Alexis Heyward of Port Valley, Georgia; Valerie and John Cummings of Perry, Georgia; Kyro Donsalo Fuller of Apopka, Florida; Grayson Moore and Zion Freeman of Orlando, Florida. Sister-in-laws: Barbara Jean Lilly of Apopka, Florida and Olivia Reynolds of Deland, Florida and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Tributes

Dorothy Jean Reynolds-Fleming

May 4, 1936 - January 20, 2025