Dorothy Barber

Dorothy Mae “Dot” Barber, the oldest of nine children born to Elfie Prejean and Ennis Sears, was born on July 13, 1944, in Jefferson County, Beaumont, Texas. She graduated high school and later earned her vocational license as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Dorothy served faithfully as an LPN for 17 years before retiring and transitioning into cosmetology, where she poured her gifts and passion for more than 20 years.

Dorothy met the love of her life, Lawrence James “Dad” Barber, in 1969. Two years later, she proudly became Dorothy Mae Barber. The two shared 50 beautiful years of marriage until his passing.

A gifted entrepreneur, Dorothy owned and operated her own cosmetology business, “Dorothy’s Divine Connect,” in Tallahassee. During her years in Tallahassee, she formed lifelong friendships with Denise Brock and Christy Hightower. She later lived in both North and South Carolina, continuing to touch lives wherever she went.

Dorothy Barber was a devoted Christian—saved, filled with the Holy Spirit, and called to serve. She was a powerful intercessor and an ordained minister. To many, she became a spiritual mother and grandmother, always leading with compassion and demonstrating the love of Christ in everything she did. Her presence radiated warmth, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

On Friday, January 16, 2026, our Lord and Savior called His daughter, Dorothy Mae Barber, home for eternal rest.

Forever cherishing her love and legacy are her nine children:

Alex Guillory (Annette), Martin Guillory, Lisa Thomas of Texas, Mary Guillory, Shelia Guillory, Mamie Barber, Lawrencetta Walker (Ongie), Christina Barber of Tallahassee, and Hope Packingham (Lester) of North Carolina; 27 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson; her adopted son Clint Pleas, adopted daughter Melanie Lewis; and her sister Jimmie “Janie” Lee Jackson.

As you can see, her legacy lives on richly through all of us. We give all glory to God for blessing us with 81 years of Dorothy “Grandma” Barber’s life, love, and light.