Dorothy Cathleen Rothe

Dorothy Cathleen Rothe, age 100, of Abingdon, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 26, 2025, in Bel Air, MD.

Dorothy was born in Norfolk, Virginia, to the late Grover Cleveland Bailey and the late Flora Alice (Smith) Bailey. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Martin William Rothe, Sr.; and her brother, Grover Bailey, Jr.

Dorothy is survived by her children, Martin (Rhonda) Rothe, Jr., and Donna Valentine. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Jon Valentine, Jr., and Eric Valentine; one great-great-grandson; and eight great-grandchildren.

Throughout her life, Dorothy was a woman of faith and community. She attended Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, where she was an active volunteer, and attended Oak Grove Baptist Church with her husband for many years.

When her children were young, Dorothy worked as a substitute teacher. She later enjoyed a long and fulfilling career with the Bata Shoe Company, where she worked for 16 years until her retirement as a shoe designer and in sales. She had a passion for cooking and took great joy in preparing meals for family and friends.

Dorothy was a longtime member of the Bel Air Athletic Club, where she swam daily and participated regularly in exercise classes. She and her husband shared a deep love of travel, enjoying many road trips, weekend getaways, and cruises together. An avid reader throughout her life, Dorothy also embraced modern technology and delighted in spending time on Instagram, especially watching cat videos. She had a lifelong love of cats and always had them as beloved pets.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dorothy’s memory to the American Heart Association or the American Lung Association.

Dorothy Cathleen Rothe will be remembered for her warmth, independence, love of family, and the joy she found in everyday life.