Dorothy "Dot" Efland

Dorothy “Dot” May Efland, 85, born July 27, 1933 to Jack and Lucille May in Graham, NC passed peacefully on Thursday, February 21, 2019. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many, she was known and loved for her quick intellect, boundless energy, and compassion to all who crossed her path.  Dot was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, William (Billy) Efland. She is survived by her seven children: Brenda Long (Edwin), Lucy Castle (Barry – deceased), Cindy Hale, Christie Martin-Gray (Marshall), William Efland, Jr. (Shelly), Michael Efland (Nancy), and Jaye Efland; her brother Carl “Jigger” May (Marguerite – deceased), sister Jean Lloyd (James) ; 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.  

Dot, aka “Gram-E” or “Momma Dot” was the quintessential loving mother to anyone who entered her space. Dot was an inaugural employee of and retired from the Duke University Center for Living where she made numerous friends from around the globe.  She was actively involved in the community and church and, after retirement, volunteered at Duke Heart Center and Duke Children’s Hospital. Regardless of background, Dot always welcomed everyone with a big smile, a sincere hug, and often a home cooked meal. An example of Christ-centered unconditional love to many, she helped shape the character of countless young people, never missing a child or grandchild’s birthday or graduation.

She was a member of Efland Presbyterian Church where she taught Sunday School for decades.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at the Efland Presbyterian Church.  A celebration of life will be held at 12:00 noon at the Efland Ruritan Club where lunch will be provided, and an opportunity to share memories of Dot. Individuals are invited to attend either or both events. 

The family would like to thank the staff of LiveWell Coker Hills and Duke Hospice for their dedicated and loving care.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Duke Hospice, the Efland Presbyterian Church, the American Heart Association or to offer a big smile and hug to someone today.

Duke Hospice

4321 Medical Park Drive, Suite 101
Durham, NC 27704
(919) 620-3853

Efland Presbyterian Church

PO Box 219

Efland, NC 27243

American Heart Association

www.heart.org/

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