Dorothy "Dottie" Byrn Spence passed away peacefully September 17, 2016 at the age of 85. She was born June 25, 1931 in Gallatin, Tennessee to Mary (Scott) and Philip Maynard Byrn. In 1950 she married George Spence. Together they raised three daughters and built a life at 1904 Main Street full of family, friends, neighbors and travel.
Dottie was happy to call Alton home for over 50 years, all the while keeping her gracious southern charm. Dottie's warmth allowed her to be a mother to many, including her cherished nieces Angela Link and Beverly Solomon. Dottie was first and foremost a mother of three, unconditionally loving her daughters Lisa Spence Huber, Sharon Spence and Dixie Spence Taylor. She was "Mimi" to her grandchildren – John and Michael Huber; Michael's fiancé Margaret Rogers; Molly, William and Paul Salomon; Paul's wife Teresa Feathers; and Abby and Mary Caroline Taylor. Her beloved great granddaughter Nora Feathers held a special place in her heart.
Dottie filled her life with friends and community – serving on the Madison County Board, selling real estate, and devoting countless hours to P.E.O., the Community Service League and the Easter Seals Society.
Chautauqua was a special place for her, where she and her husband George owned a cottage. Every summer she was eager to be among friends and nature.
Dottie played a great game of bridge, no matter the hand she was dealt, and loved the ladies she played with over the years.
Dottie always read the obituaries herself but she didn't want a long one. Unfortunately for Dottie, her life was too full and her love too great to warrant any less.
Dottie's motto was a simple one - "Life is Good." She made life better for all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Dottie was preceded in death by her husband, her sisters Brodie Shaw and Marion Tobias, and her brother James Byrn.
Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 21, 2016 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton where funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 22, 2016. Reverend Charles Schwaab will officiate. Burial will be at Upper Alton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to P.E.O. Chapter IL, Program for Continuing Education. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com