At age 91, gracefully left this world on May 30, 2010, from her home in Island County, Washington, traveling on to new adventures, discoveries, and delights.

Born in Jones County, Iowa, on September 30, 1918 to Joseph and Dora Fisher., she was one of six children who came of age during the Great Depression. She was the first female in her extended family not only to graduate from high school, but to attend college as well. It was during her time at Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, that she met William G. “Bill” Tennant, whom she married in 1940.

Prior to marriage, she was a teacher in a one room school in rural Iowa. Her passion for public education was solidified at this time and was a constant throughout her life. After marriage, she moved to Boston, to join her spouse as he completed graduate school. Upon completing his degree work, and receiving ordination as clergy in the Methodist Church, they moved to Junction City, Oregon. Towards the end of World War II, Bill became a chaplain and commissioned officer in the United States Navy. This took them both to many places in both the United States and elsewhere during their military career.

Dorothy’s love of people and places was evident throughout her life. Whether it be a new duty station or a place discovered during her many travels, she explored each locale with delight, learning about the culture, history, and community. She shared her experiences with family and friends, opening new windows in many lives with art, history, dance, theatre, and always with music.

She was a writer of letters, a lover and performer of music, a painter, a talented creator of textiles, an inspired cook, a loving parent and spouse, and a true citizen of the world. Those who met her, met a friend. Those she loved had someone wise, kind, and supportive in their corner. And her children always knew that their mother was on their side, cheering them on, and loving them unconditionally. In her presence, joys were multiplied and sorrows diminished.

She is survived by her daughters and their spouses – Margot E. “Peg” Tennant (Charles Skow) of Coupeville, WA., Kathryn E. “Kate” Rogers (Raymond) of Greenbank, WA, and Barbara Tennant (Miller Batson) currently of Lynnwood, WA., as well as her much-beloved grandsons Alexander, Bradley, Thomas, Noah, and Nathaniel. Her sisters Marian Tillett of Wyoming and Mildred Knight of South Carolina also survive her.

Preceding her from this world have been her spouse, “my Bill”, her grandson Jacob Batson, and her brothers Albert, Howard, and Robert.

Private burial at Sunnyside Cemetery occurred on June 6, 2010. A gathering to bless her headstone and celebrate her life will occur at a later time.

Her family wishes to thank Dr. Jerald Sanders for his many years of professional, compassionate care; the staff and volunteers of Home Health Hospice for assisting us with Dorothy’s desire to be at home and die at home, and Mr. Garry Wallin for his many kindnesses in the struggle to fulfill her last wishes.

We also thank our friends, co-workers, troupes, and groups for supporting us as we accepted the privilege of supporting mom during the last part of her life.

Dorothy had wide and varied interests — and ever since her days as a teacher, public education was one of the most important – most especially reading, music, theatre, art, history, and the nurture of young peoples passions.

She also loved those activities that built and supported community. If you should feel moved to honor her in some way, her family asks that you give support to any local program that enhances an interest you might share with her. She was very much aware that the gift of time and service was one of the highest to offer.

“She walks shining”