In Loving Memory of Dorothy “Dot” Van Dyke

February 1, 1942 – September 1, 2026

Dorothy “Dot” Van Dyke, 84, went home to be with the Lord on September 1, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on February 1, 1942, in Birmingham, Alabama, Dot was the daughter of Peter Frank Turner and Dorothy Ella Robertson Turner. She attended Auburn University before beginning what would become a long and successful career in real estate.

For many years, Dot was a prominent and well-known real estate professional in the Atlanta area. Through her own real estate business, she built a successful career founded on determination, hard work, and her natural ability to connect with people. Her relationships and reputation extended far beyond the homes she helped people buy and sell.

Yet, for all her professional accomplishments, Dot's greatest legacy was not measured in business success, but in the countless lives she touched along the way.

Above all else, Dot was someone who genuinely wanted to make others happy. Her family lovingly describes her as a “pleaser.” She had a remarkable way of putting the happiness, comfort, and needs of others ahead of her own. Whether with family, friends, or someone she had just met, she wanted those around her to feel welcomed, appreciated, and cared for. Making other people happy brought her happiness.

Dot was also a woman of strength, determination, humor, and an unmistakable personality. She had a strong will, a generous heart, and a presence that those who knew her will never forget. There truly was only one Dot Van Dyke.

To her children, she was Mom. To her grandchildren, she was Mimi. Those were the names spoken with the greatest affection, and the memories she created with her family will continue to be treasured for generations.

Although Dot and George Van Dyke's marriage had ended, their friendship and care for one another endured. During the final chapter of her life, George opened his home to Dot, providing a place where she could spend her remaining days in comfort, peace, and the company of family. It was a meaningful reflection of the lasting bond they shared.

On September 1, 2024, Dot began a difficult journey with metastatic cancer. Over the following two years, she faced her illness with extraordinary strength, courage, and grace. She spent her final days surrounded by those who loved her.

September 1 holds a remarkable significance in Dot's story. It was her own mother's birthday, the day she received her cancer diagnosis in 2024, and ultimately the day she went home to be with the Lord in 2026. Her family knows that Mom went home on September 1, reunited with her mother and father once again.

Dot was preceded in death by her parents, Peter Frank Turner and Dorothy Ella Robertson Turner.

She is survived by her sons, David Van Dyke (Stacy) and Russ Van Dyke; her brother, Peter Turner (Diane); and her beloved grandchildren, Caroline and Jack Van Dyke, and Kate, Lainey, Piper, and Penelope Newberry. She is also lovingly remembered by George Van Dyke, her former husband, with whom she shared a lasting bond, along with her nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

A private celebration of Dot's life will be held with her family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alpharetta Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, 180 Academy St, Alpharetta, GA 30009

Dot leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, faith, and love. Her life reminds us that our greatest accomplishments are not always measured by what we achieve, but by the difference we make in the lives of others.

She spent so much of her life making sure everyone else was happy.

Now, her family finds peace in knowing that she is finally home.

The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ms. Dorothy "Dot" Van Dyke.