Dorothy Futrell Johnson

   Dorothy Futrell Johnson, 96, of 814 Court Street, Gatesville, NC, passed away on Saturday, December 22, 2018, in her home.

   Mrs. Johnson was born in Northampton County on August 5, 1922, and was the daughter of the late Edwin Kelly and Mary Elma Hall Futrell. For many years she operated the Gatesville Theater and the Gatesville Grill, known to have the best milkshakes and burgers anywhere. She and her husband, Bill Johnson, purchased the Gatesville Hotel in 1957 and operated it until 1968, and also during the 1960’s she operated the Gatesville Sandwich & Coffee Shop. She always said that many court cases were settled over her dinners.

   “Dot” and “Bill” had annual Halloween Festivals for many years, and people were known to come from other counties and Virginia for the good time to be had. She and Bill were married for 75 years until his death in September, 2015. They were avid dancers and were members of several Square Dance Clubs, and never missed the chance to “shake a leg”. Other enjoyments included chaperoning the Teenagers Club during the 1950’s, and her years of membership in both Gatesville Baptist Church and the Gatesville Chapter, The Order of The Eastern Star.

   In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Effie Lassiter and Sylvia Worrell.

   Surviving are three daughters, Peggy Jean Lawrence and husband, Thomas, of Lanexa, VA, Judith Anne Smith and granddaughter, Holly Michelle, of Gatesville, and Billy Jo Simkins, of South Mills; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

   Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 27^th, at 2:00 p.m. in Upper Room Assembly, 807 Main Street, Gatesville, and will be conducted by the Revs. Bob Skeens and Eric Earhart. A private burial next to her beloved Bill will follow in the Gatesville Cemetery. Immediately following the service, the Ladies of Gatesville Baptist Church will provide a reception at Upper Room, giving an opportunity for the family to visit with their friends and share countless memories.

   Miller Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.