Dorothy Jean Upton, 87, of Phoenix, Arizona, formerly of Newton, Iowa, died Sunday, January 1, 2023, at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center in Phoenix.
Born December 19, 1935, in Montezuma, Iowa to Harlan E Butcher and Lena N (Watson) Butcher, both deceased.
Along with her parents, Dorothy lived in Pella and then in Newton, Iowa where she attended and graduated from Newton Public High School. After graduation she worked for Bell Telephone Company until she met and married John H Upton, (deceased), April 15, 1956.
In the summer of 1956 Dorothy and John moved to Phoenix, Arizona. They had two children, Pamela Sue (Upton) Hussey and Scott Butcher Upton, (deceased).
Dorothy was a stay-at-home mom until the spring of 1971. It was then she took a part time job as a cafeteria lady. She stayed with the Washington Elementary School District for 25 years, retiring in 1996.
During their 50 years of marriage Dorothy and John made yearly trips to Iowa, visiting family and friends. They were able to take a few cruises and spent time in all 50 states. Later, after John passed away, she and friends were able to take a few weeks and tour Germany.
Dorothy was an accomplished seamstress, she enjoyed meeting up with friends on a regular basis for breakfast and lunch. She loved to shop, always on the lookout for the best deal.
Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Pamela S Hussey, Don Hussey, Pam’s husband, her daughter-in-law, Lois Upton, her grandchildren, Nathanial A Schwarz, his wife, Christa Shepherd, Victoria M Schwarz, and Sara M Upton and her great grandsons, Haydn, Tristan, and Ivar.
Dorothy lived a full life, was loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 26, 2023, at the Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel in Mount Pleasant. Pastor Tye Male will officiate. Family will greet friends for one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the Richwoods Cemetery. The Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel is caring for Dorothy and her family. www.powellfuneralhomes.com