Dorothy Mae Nelson

Dorothy Mae Harper Nelson was born on September 23, 1933, in Marion (Perry County), Alabama.  Affectionately known by family and friends as “Dot”, she was the ninth of ten children born to the late Bennie Louis Harper, Sr., and Frances Juett Harper. Dorothy had five sisters Annie Bell, Inez (Nell), Odith (Sister), Katie (Pumpkin), and Frances.  Four brothers Clarence, Richard, Bennie Jr (Son), Willie (Bill).

The Harpers were hardworking, dedicated parents who instilled in their children the love of family and the love of God.  At an early age, Dorothy joined New Fellowship Baptist Church in Marion, Alabama under the leadership of the late Reverend L.B. Stephens.  Dorothy was active in Sunday School and other activities of the church.

Dorothy was educated in the Perry County Public School System. She attended Lincoln Normal High School, where she was very active in the school curriculum attending school meetings, socializing with classmates particularly with Los Angeles Lincolnite Chapter. She found immense pleasure in returning to Marion and other venues for class reunions.  She was so excited about her education and accomplishments, she would read out loud any material, books, articles, letters, etc.  She was very proud of her reading abilities.

Dorothy and her husband, Napoleon relocated to Pacoima, California for a better life and opportunity for their five beautiful children, Sandra, Evelyn (Judy), Rodney, Cathy (Tina), and Pamela (Pam).  The arrival of grandchildren was indeed a blessing and brought joy and pride to Dot and Napoleon. 

A gentle spirit, with a caring heart, it was quite natural that Dorothy enjoyed a rewarding career in the field of Health Care Services working with Cerebral Palsy clients.  She was compassionate, hardworking, and well-respected by her colleagues.  Her career included working at Northrop Grumman (El Segundo) as a Supervisor in Plant Protection.

Following the passing of her husband Napoleon in May 1986, Dorothy proved that she was truly a risk-taker and trailblazer by relocating upon retirement, May 2007 to N. Las Vegas, Nevada.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, friend and caregiver, Dorothy dedicated her life to her family, community, and church.  Dorothy was a faithful member of Reseda Church of Christ under the leadership of Dr. Dwayne Winrow.  After relocating to Las Vegas, she reestablished her membership with North Las Vegas Church Of Christ under the leadership of Brother Leo Gay.  She attended regularly when her health permitted.

Beneath her quiet exterior was a regal and independent spirit with impeccable style, grace, character, and integrity, always compassionate, Dorothy believed in helping others, be it family or friends.  A gracious hostess, she was an excellent cook and loved entertaining.  Dorothy was indeed a blessing to those whose lives she touched.

On Tuesday morning, February 7, 2023, at 10:45 a.m., Centennial Hospital in Las Vegas, God called Dorothy to put aside her earthly labor and enter His kingdom to rest eternally.  She will be loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.  Those left to cherish her sweet memories are her daughters:  Sandra Marie Harper Billingsley (Larry), Sylmar, CA; Evelyn Juanita Harper Collins (Milbert, Jr.), Sylmar, CA; Cathy Motenee Nelson Stevenson (Carlos) Las Vegas, NV; and Pamela Mceen Nelson, Los Angeles, CA; her son: Rodney Morocco Nelson, Las Vegas, NV; grandchildren: Larry Bernard Billingsley, Fahima Billingsley Rosario (Charlie); Demetrius Jovan Billingsley; Derrick Ray Collins; Blair Collins; Claresa N Nelson Taylor (Raynaldo); Tamara Lison; Napoleon O’Neil Kimble (Deborah); great grandchildren:  Shae M. Billingsley (Shanna); Savannha Marie Rosario; Shevell Alyssa Rosario; Jordan Ara Billingsley; Desireé Acuña; Diego Acuña; Naomi Kimble; great-great grandchildren: Dominic Josiah Billingsley; London Song Billingsley; Bryson Michael Billingsley; Robert Griffin; Skylar Mon’et Taylor; Chayce Kash Taylor; Summer Reign Taylor; Damon Roshod McGregor, Jr and sister: Frances Louise Johnson of Pacoima, CA., and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  In addition to her parents, husband and eight siblings Dorothy was preceded in death by her beloved grandchildren Frances Voncelia Harper, Sky Morocco Nelson, and her adored longtime companion “Princess” her cat.