Dorothy Elder Gatton, 90, of Olin, N.C., passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, following a lengthy illness. She was surrounded and comforted by her family in her final moments.

Dorothy was born in Iredell County, N.C., on September 15, 1934, to the late James Foy Elder and Annie Wilson Elder. Dorothy was a loving mother, grandmother, wife, and sister. Her family meant the world to her. She married Harold Gatton on June 9, 1958 and together they raised four wonderful children. Their marriage lasted until his passing in 1997.

Dorothy’s greatest joy in life was her family. She poured her heart into raising her children, cherishing her grandchildren, and nurturing the bonds that made her family so strong. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of her family and those who knew her.

A woman of deep faith, Dorothy loved the Lord and lived a life rooted in kindness, devotion, and grace. She was a member of Monticello Baptist Church. Her faith and fellowship brought comfort and joy to her throughout her life.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her gentle spirit, her faith, and her dedication to her loved ones.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Foy Elder and Annie Wilson Elder; her husband Harold Gattonl sisters, Faye Farmer and Shirley Mayberry; and great granddaughter, Paisley Price.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Marie Elkins (Stephen); sons, Darrell Gatton (Norma), Michael Gatton (Ruth Lilienstein), and Robert Gatton (Melissa); brothers, Gene Elder and Jim Elder; grandchildren, Brooke Gatton, Hope Johnson ( Brandon), Courtney Bruce (Chris), Sebastian Gatton, Terrence Gatton, and Stephanie Elkins; great grandchildren, Jaxson Gatton, Maddi Gatton, Hendrix Bruce, and Charlie Johnson.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Iredell County for their help in their mother’s care over the past five months.

The family plans to hold a memorial service at a later date.

Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.