In loving memory of
Dorothy Ferrell Polnett
September 7, 1947 – January 20, 2025
Virtual Memorial Gathering
Friday, February 21, 2025
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Dorothy Ferrell Polnett Obituary
Dorothy Marie Polnett, age 77, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025.
She was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to William and Marie Ferrell. Dorothy graduated from John Hay High School in 1966. That summer after graduation the family survived the “Hough Riots” that took place in her neighborhood of Hough, when a few people lost their lives and many were injured that incident.
She went on to work various jobs throughout her life, eventually finding a fulfilling career with Ohio Bell Telephone Company. While working there, she pursued her passion for cosmetology, earning her license and building a successful clientele.
In 1973 Dorothy’s career continued to thrive when she joined North Central Airlines, later known as Republic Airlines, in Cleveland, Ohio. Over the span of 36 years, she was able to travel the world over. Dorothy’s leadership and dedication made her a respected figure within the Airlines, helping many people and sometimes even letting stranded international passengers stay at her home.
Her professional journey took her and her desire to find a better opportunity led her to Atlanta, Ga , where she met the love of her life, Bill Polnett. They married in 1981 and spent a few years in Atlanta, then moved on to Minneapolis, where she was promoted to a supervisor role for Republic Airlines. Republic Airline merged with Northwest Orient Airways to become Northwest Airlines in 1986 a year later the opportunity became available to move out to Los Angeles. After a few years in L. A. the couple relocated up to Seattle, Washington. In Seattle, Dorothy and Bill built their dream home, with stunning views of the Cascade Mountians. Dorothy cherished her life in the Pacific Northwest, but after husband Bill’s passing in 2009, she moved to Orlando, Florida. Despite the change in location, her heart remained with the memories of Bill, her true soulmate.
Dorothy was devoted to her sons, Erik and Michael Polnett. Erik honored his mother by becoming her full-time caregiver in her later years, offering her unwavering love and support.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, William and Marie Ferrell, her brother Larry Ferrell, and her sister Vanessa Ferrell, whose birthday coincided with Dorothy’s passing. It is a comfort to believe they are together now.
She is survived by her 10 siblings (Butch, Darlene, Denise, Alvin, Patrice, Monica, Jerome, Katrina, Linda and Brenda) her two sons Michael and Erik; Step-children Delmontee, Sonji, Elisa, and Sherri; nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Dorothy was not only a beloved sister, but also a cherished friend to many.
Dorothy’s legacy of love, strength, and devotion will remain in our hearts forever. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love she gave so freely. We will miss you always, Dorothy.
With love,
The Family
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This is not goodbye. It’s only so long my sweet, sweet sister-in-law, Dorothy. I’ll see you up top!
R.I.P.
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Thank you for doing this, my mother and I were able to watch together. We are forever grateful for the love Dorothy extended to us.
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My deepest sympathy 💐 and condolences such a great blessing and pleasure helping care for Mrs Dorthy such positive energy and sweet soul much much love 💕 coco
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To the Family you have my Deepest Sympathies on the Death of Dorothy Polnett.. May the Lord Grant you Compassion and Comfort on the Loss of this Beautiful Lady … May she Rest In Paradise 🙏🙏🙏
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Your mother and sister n law had such a beautiful, caring spirit.
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To my Aunt Dorothy, some of my earliest and happiest memories will be of you. Your path in life was a road map for many to follow. I still fondly remember the times as a child coming to Atlanta (yes I do remember them😊) and especially the memories of visiting you ALL in Seattle.. My heart breaks for your passing, only soothed by knowing that you left behind a legacy of love and memories that will live on 8n anyone who had the absolute pleasure and joy of knowing you. Rest In Paradise Aunt Dorothy
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I always knew Dorothy to be one of the kindest and most even tempered persons that I ever met. It was a pleasure to have her as my sister in law.
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My prayers go out to you and your family. You have my condolences.
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My deepest condolences, and most heartfelt joy for Mrs.Polnett’s transition and return to Our essence.
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I am deeply saddened to hear about Mrs Dorothy’s passing. I had the privilege of knowing her since I was in high school. She was always such a kind, warm, loving, and welcoming spirit.
She was like a second mother to me. And treated me like one of her own. I remember when she scolded me for not doing the dishes. I knew better, (Here comes the bus), however, I was listening to Erik. I told her, I thought, because I was company, I had an out. Nope, not in Mrs. Dorothy’s eyes. She said, ‘for allowing myself to be fooled by stupid, I now must wash the pots and pans also’.😄
Her sweet, but if you get out of line, I will put you in your place nature, and the way she made everyone feel at ease, will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. From my whole heart, she will be so very truly missed!💖 Love you to pieces, Mrs. Dorothy.
Lord, we asked for your comfort and peace to surround Mrs. Dorothy’s family during this time of loss. May you grant them strength to carry on, and may they find solace in the beautiful memories they shared with her. Please welcome her into your eternal embrace, where she may rest in your love and light. Amen.🙏
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Dear: Aunt Dorothy,
“Though I never had the honor of meeting such an incredible human, Aunt Dorothy, your legacy of love, compassion, and success shines brightly. You are, and will always be, simply magnificent. The world could use many more like you. I know you are here in spirit, and I love you always.
— Nephew Deandre”
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I will always remember the day we danced Momma Dorothy. I know you are dancing on the clouds now. My condolences to the family who will miss and grieve her home going. I had the pleasure of knowing her for a short time but in that short time we’ve shared beautiful moments. Another angel to watch over me!
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Aunt dorothy, you’re warmth and hospitality are staple in my heart and mind. I enjoyed growing up around you in Atlanta and spending time with you and the family in Minneapolis and in Los Angeles. Blessings, Peace & Rest until we meet again.
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Sister Dorothy was a true angel among us, a beacon of kindness and grace for all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering support touched each of our lives in ways that words can hardly capture. She was not only a beloved sister but also a trailblazer, paving the way for our family when she became the first to enter the airline industry. Through her courage and determination, she showed us that a single person can uplift and inspire many.
Today, we do not gather in sorrow but in deep gratitude and love for the remarkable life she lived. Our hearts are filled with respect and joy as we honor her legacy—a legacy of kindness, strength, and an enduring spirit that will forever live on in each of us.
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Dearest sister
May you rest in the heavens above until we all are joined by hands again
Your beautiful spirit will forever live on in my heart
The love you showed as our eldest sister was something beyond remarkable may your beautiful spirit continue to rest in
Paradise
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Mom Dorthy, such a sweetheart, made my Dad happy and diligently cared for him until his passing. She also loved on me and my children for many years. Now, you get to reunite with Dad. Your contagious smile and awesome dance moves are surely missed. Rest in peace. 🙏🏽
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Dorothy was a beautiful spirit a life lived with purpose to the fullest.
She always had a kind word and sweet demeanor. She had love for everyone,
And set a wonderful example for others to follow. God rest her soul, much love.
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Dear Aunt Dorothy,
You will be missed by many. You were such an angel on earth. I will never forget all the family memories you used to share with me and my sisters when we visited.
Rest easy Aunt Dorothy! ❤️
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My sister-in-law and friend added to my life what it is to live love, commitment, strength, and generosity. I trust that I will let those traits live in me; thanks Dot. Love and peace to all. Michael Reece🙏
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May you and Dad be reunited in love and peace, resting in Gods arms. I love you Mom Dorothy. You will be missed.
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My Dancing Queen You will Be Missed But Always Remembered
Continue To Rest in the Lords Arms Peacefully 🕊🫶🏾🕊🫶🏾🕊🫶🏾🕊🫶🏾🕊
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My heart is broken, I’m devastated, but the lord has spoken, You heard his call ,you took his hand and left it all. You couldn’t stay another day .Task undone must stay that way,I think god you found peace at the end of the day. Peace be with you, forever . Your loving sister
Denise.
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Dorothy you were a great sister and supporter of the family. I will miss you dearly. Rest assured our sister has her place in Heaven.
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Momma Polnett , love you
You are a true blessing to everyone who got a chance to cross your path , i will never forget you .
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Dorothy you were a beautiful person with an equally beautiful. spirit . It truly was a blessing to know you
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I am so happy we can share this moment of tribute for sister Dorothy.
I have devoted a full chapter in my book honoring Dorothy and I am extremely proud of that.