Dr. Dorothy Burkhart

Dr. Dorothy Howard Davenport Burkhart, age 75, of Lexington passed away on Thursday, June 27, 2019 at her home.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Monday at Davidson Funeral Home in Lexington.

Dr. Dottie Burkhart was born in Rowan County on July 3, 1944 to John Allen Davenport and Dorothy Hester Davenport. She was a member of Grace Episcopal Church and was a retired English Teacher, having worked at Davidson County Community College for over 30 years. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Tom Burkhart.

Dr. Dottie, as her friends and colleagues called her, was the heartblood of the early drama program at DCCC.  Her love of theatre, poetry, and literature was communicated to hundreds and hundreds of students during her tenure of over 30 years at the College.  Living the creed of “life long learning,” she obtained her doctorate at  UNC-Greensboro, focusing her studies on Christine Reid, a local writer from Salisbury.

Her commitment to local people and places was evident in not only her academic work – Dottie was also a dedicated civil servant.  She graciously participated as a volunteer through Grace Episcopal Church and other community organizations, including Meals on Wheels, DCCC’s International Night events, and the Davidson County Democrats.

Dottie touched the lives of many through her teaching, community service, and her commitment to a life wonderfully lived.  She is remembered fondly by all.

Surviving are her son, Dr. Thad Allen Burkhart of the home; a brother, John Vann Davenport of Lexington; honorary children, Thelma Lawhorn Branson and husband Mark; and honorary granddaughters, Amanda Cox, Marissa Branson and Natalie Branson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Grace Episcopal Church at 419 S. Main Street, Lexington, NC 27292.