Dorothy Lee Fitts was born on May 19, 1946, to the union of Surrie Collins, Sr. and Martha Ann Collins, in Cascilla, Mississippi.  She was their only daughter and affectionately known as "Did" to family members. She confessed a hope in Christ at an early age as a member of the Piney Grove Baptist Church and was educated in the local public school system.  Dorothy was called to eternal peace in heaven on May 26, 2024.  She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, auntie, sister and friend.
Dorothy was born and raised in the Mississippi delta during a time when being a Black girl and woman was especially challenging.  She mastered the rigors of hard work early and developed a fierce determination to survive.  Though she enjoyed the lush, beautiful countryside and warm weather of the deep south, her dreams took her north – first to Memphis, Tennessee and ultimately to Columbus, Ohio.
Dorothy found stable work soon after arrival and later followed her passion to become the owner of a professional cleaning service.  She took pride in providing reliable and detailed services.  Her strong work ethic was well-known in the community and many of her clients remained loyal for over fifty years.  Dorothy also had a creative flair.  Whether furnishing and updating her lovely home or crafting elaborate floral arrangements and Christmas decorations, her personal touch made them special.
Family was important to Dorothy.  She loved being the only sister of eight sibling brothers, the mother of three, grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of three.  The happy squeals of "Granny!" that often greeted her were music to her ears.  She was frequently tickled by her younger grandchildren's antics and blunt way of speaking on just about any subject.  Dorothy also stood proudly while watching her older grandchildren graduate and go on to thrive in their respective fields.  She had the pleasure of attending and cheering during ceremonies in Columbus, Atlanta and Arizona.
Dorothy held her faith close to her heart.  She joined Greater Grace Apostolic Church after coming to Columbus.  She was drawn to the church because many members shared her southern roots.  It felt like home.  In more recent years, she has joined and fellowshipped with the congregations of Southeast Apostolic Mission, Grace Apostolic and, most recently, New Birth Christian Ministries.
Dorothy is preceded in death by her parents, Surrie Collins, Sr. and Martha Ann, Collins; husband; Porter L. Fitts; brothers, Ulysses, John Henry, Edward, Joseph and Surrie Collins, Jr.  She is survived by her brothers; Lawrence (Teona) Collins, Robert Collins, Sr. and Alonzo Collins; sister-in-law, Dorothy Collins: Her children, Debra Payne, Lajuana (Marvin) Brooks and Tyrone (Ronet) Payne.  She is also survived by her precious grandchildren, Jaylen Payne, Tyler Payne, Demarco Stewart, Markayla Brooks, Marvin Brooks, Jr., Charleigh Dials, Ronen Payne, Rahni Johnson and Robyn Peeples; her beloved great-grand daughter, Aubree Payne and adorable great-grandsons, Elijah Stewart and Ezra Stewart.  Dorothy also leaves to cherish her memory Godmother Elizabeth Solomon, sister friend, Tona Moore, special friend and mother of her oldest grandchildren, Artrese "Winky" Payne and special son, Dondi Smith as well as a host of nieces, nephews and friends.Homegoing service Saturday, June 8, 2024, 12:00 Noon Cornerstone Pentecostal Church 2143 Joyce Ave. Columbus, OH 43219 Public viewing will be held 10:30 AM - 12:00 Noon.  Entombment Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens