Dorothy L. “Dottie” Benoit
Dorothy L. “Dottie” Benoit was born on February 7, 1926, in Paducah, Kentucky, to William G. Outland and Lela Mae Outland Jones. Throughout her 100 years, 7 months and 20 days, Dottie lived a life defined by faith, service, kindness, and unwavering devotion to family.
A faithful member of Grace Baptist Church, Dottie actively participated in church life and led Bible studies for many years, sharing her love of God and inspiring others through her example. She was a proud Kentucky Colonel honoring her years of volunteering with hospice, a dedicated Girl Scout leader, and a steadfast advocate for individuals with special needs. Dottie was also a devoted member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post 2153 in Moline, Illinois, where she maintained membership for more than 40 years. Above all, she spent her life as a servant of God and a friend to all who knew her.
Dottie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Allen Raymond Benoit; her parents; her sisters, Nancy Florene Kanold Perez and Bettie Gene Gibbons (Raymond); and her foster sister, Jewel “Judy” Eberhard (Danny).
At the young age of 15, Dottie met the love of her life, Allen Raymond Benoit. They were married on December 7, 1943, and shared a remarkable marriage built on faith, devotion, and enduring love beyond Allen's passing on April 19, 1996. Together, they loved children deeply and opened their hearts to many beyond their own family. Family was Dottie's greatest joy, and she took immense pride in every one of “her children”.
She is survived by her son, Allen Douglas Benoit (Lynne); her daughter, Donna June Doellinger (Scott); and her cherished nephew, Dr. Timothy D. Kanold (Susan).
Her grandchildren were the loves of her life: Collette C. Benoit (Bridget Sullivan), Nannette J. Benoit Dean (Christopher), Juliette C. Williams (Brad), Jeffrey Allen Doellinger (Stephanie), and Kurt Edward Doellinger (Melissa).
She was further blessed with eight beloved great-grandchildren: Michaela M. Brown (Matthew), Emily C. Hecker (Evan), Michael S. Doellinger, Teresa M. Doellinger, SPC Isiah D.B. Williams (Emily), Aria S. Doellinger, and Liam A. Doellinger, as well as her treasured great-great-granddaughter, Nyla E. Ray. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends across the country, all of whom she loved wholeheartedly.
After returning to Murray following years in the Chicago area and later Rock Island, Illinois, Dottie continued to expand the family she so lovingly created. She is survived by her “Murray daughter,” Lisa Carver (Adam), and their daughters, Whitney Vitt (Austin) and Sydney Vance (Dustin), along with grandchildren Brenley, Carver, and Emersyn.
Dottie was also deeply loved by many members of her Murray community, including the wonderful team at Sirloin Stockade. There, she was often found in her customary place of honor, warmly greeting guests, sharing stories, and enjoying a delicious meal among friends who had become family.
Since December 2025, Dottie enjoyed a vibrant and enriched life at Charter Senior Living. Her family is profoundly grateful for the love, compassion, and exceptional care provided by the staff during her final months. The caregivers and fellow residents quickly became an extension of her family, surrounding her with friendship, dignity, and affection.
Dottie's legacy is one of faith, generosity, and unconditional love. She touched countless lives through her kindness, welcomed everyone as family, and leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
A service celebrating Dottie’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home, with Dr. Timothy D. Kanold and Rev. Sammy Cunningham officiating. Burial will follow the service in the Elm Grove Cemetery, Murray, KY.
Friends may visit with the family after 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2026, until the service hour of 1:00 p.m. at the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home, 713 South 4th St., Murray, KY.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to be entrusted with the care of Mrs. Benoit. Please share your messages of condolence by signing her virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
