Dottie Lee (Harper) Branson

Dottie Lee Harper Branson, 92, passed peacefully December 29, 2021 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Dottie was predeceased by her husband of 68 years, Donald Ansley Branson, Sr. and son-in-law, Mike Herter.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, just months before Black Monday and the start of the Great Depression, Dottie’s childhood gave her a great understanding of the importance of education and the significance of hard work.

After graduating high school, Dottie attended Harris Teachers College and later, she earned her Master’s Degree in early childhood development from Webster University. Dottie’s career as an educator allowed her to share her love of learning with countless primary students. Dottie was also an active member in organizations committed to helping women pursue higher education. Through these organizations, the College Club of St. Louis and Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), Dottie was able to provide motivation, support, and college scholarship opportunities to many aspiring students.

At home, Dottie enjoyed gardening and playing bridge. She was a member of various garden clubs (Sunset Hills and Village Pines) for over forty years. Bridge began with friendly games between Don and Dottie and friends and grew until her calendar stayed full of scheduled bridge games.

Dottie and Don lived in St. Louis until relocating to Hot Springs Village in 2006.

Dottie is survived by her children Donna Herter, Debra Ross and Donald Branson, Jr. (Dot); grandchildren Dan Audrain, Cassie York (Adrian), Peter Branson (Melanie) and Taylor Branson; and great-grandchildren Henry Branson, Corbin York, Tristan York and Holden Branson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to P.E.O Chapter DE Star Scholarship, 6 Granada Place, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas 71909 or to College Club of St Louis Scholarship Program, 9555 South Geyer Rd, St Louis, Missouri 63127.

Memorial services will be held 10am Saturday, January22, 2022 at Woodlands Presbyterian Church, 11 Ecuestre Drive, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.