Mrs. Dorothy L. Wells (Jolly) passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the age of 97. She was born on October 1, 1928, to the late Samuel Jolly, Sr., and Mildred Reynolds Jolly in Topeka, KS. The youngest of five children, she was blessed with a natural gift for the visual and creative arts. Her talent as a visual artist and fashion designer lives on through the many paintings and portraits that still grace the homes of family and friends—a lasting reflection of her eye for beauty and detail.

She was a proud graduate of Topeka High School and went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree from Emporia State University and her Master’s Degree from Kansas State University, laying the foundation for a life dedicated to excellence and education.

A God-fearing and prayerful woman, Dorothy walked by faith and led by example. She was a longtime member of Bethel AME Church in Tallahassee, Florida, where her quiet strength and steadfast spirit were a guiding light to many. Fashionable and stylish in every season of her life, she carried herself with grace, dignity, and confidence. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—an engaging book, a challenging sudoku puzzle, a round of golf, and a good cup of coffee. She lived with curiosity, discipline, and joy. Above all, she loved her family deeply, instilling in each generation a foundation that is both unbreakable and ever-renewing.

A retired college professor, Dorothy devoted over 40 years to shaping minds and nurturing creativity. She taught fashion design, merchandising, and home economics at Prairie View A&M University, Florida A&M University, and Florida State University. Through her teaching, mentorship, and example, she poured wisdom into generations of students, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the classroom.

She was a Life Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated—an organization she cherished deeply and served faithfully. Initiated through the Delta Kappa Omega Chapter, she gave years of dedicated service and sisterhood. Among her many roles, she served as Graduate Advisor for the Zeta Omicron Chapter at Florida State University, guiding and uplifting young women with care and purpose.

Dorothy was also deeply engaged in her community, lending her time and talents to numerous organizations, including the Ladies Art & Social Club, Red Hatters, Order of the Eastern Star, NAACP, and the National Hook-Up of Black Women. Her life was a testament to service, connection, and commitment to uplifting others.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Samuel A. Jolly II, Merrill Jolly, and Eugene Jolly, Sr.; her sister, Mildred V. Jolly; and her beloved daughter, Carmen V.W. Perkins.

She leaves to cherish her memory her grandchildren: McKinley C. Patterson III (Raleigh, NC), Jonathan S.E. Perkins (Columbus, GA), and Charisse Woolridge (Michael) of Atlanta, GA; her great-grandchildren: Blair C. Patterson (San Antonio, TX), Chandler E.M. Patterson (Houston, TX), McKinley Christopher Patterson IV (Raleigh, NC), McKenzie Patterson (Fort Riley, KS), Michael J. Woolridge II, Mariah Woolridge, and Memphis Woolridge (Atlanta, GA); eight great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cherished extended family.

As a breast and colon cancer survivor, she leaned on her faith, emerging each time with renewed strength and testimony.

Her life was a masterpiece—painted with faith, love, service, and grace—and her legacy will continue to shine in all who were blessed to know her.

The Visitation for Mrs. Wells will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, beginning at 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. at Progressive.

The Homegoing Celebration for Mrs. Wells will continue in Topeka, KS, beginning with a visitation on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 p.m. at Bowser Johnson Funeral Chapel at 723 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.

The Graveside Celebration will be on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Mount Hope Cemetery, 4700 SW 17th St., Topeka, KS 66604.

Progressive Funeral Home staff considers it an honor and a privilege to serve the Family of Mrs. Dorothy L. Wells (Jolly).

Visitation

Apr

9

Progressive Funeral Home

4235 St. Mary's Road
Columbus, GA 31907

3:30 PM - 5:30 PM