Doris R. “Dot” Tolley, 89, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Tuesday September 17, 2019 at Oakview Nursing and Rehabilitation surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on January 2, 1930 in Norris City, Illinois, the daughter of Thomas and Rebecca (Forrester) Gidcumb. She married James R. “Bob” Tolley on April 12, 1949 in Maunie, IL and he preceded her in death on August 1, 2015 after sixty-six years of marriage.

Dot began working at Hadley’s Café in 1963 and remained a valued employee there until it’s closing in 2009. She was well known in the community for her delicious pies. One particular Thanksgiving, she baked over one hundred pies for area families. Dot loved to cook and bake for her family. She could often be found in her kitchen singing while cooking a delicious meal. Dot also enjoyed gardening. She had a love for roses and could grow some absolute beauties. Dot was very hardworking and had a kind soul. She never met a stranger. She lovingly referred to her husband as “Her Bob” and he in turn called her “His Doris”. Dot was a member of First General Baptist Church. She was loved by many and will be missed by all who knew her.

Dot will be remembered by her daughter, Joanne (Steve) Elliott of Mount Carmel; grandchildren, Dena (Warren) Tarpley, Tracey (Jeff) Kell and Shad Elliott; five great-grandchildren, Andrew (Kaycee) Curtis, Courtney (Brandon) Roberts, Nate (Casey) Kell, Mackenzie Kell and Alli Kell; great-great-grandson, Kayden Ray Roberts; sisters, Dorothy Banks, Phyllis Edwards; and one brother, Don Gidcumb.

Dot was preceded in death by her parents; husband; grandson-in-law, John Curtis; four brothers; and three sisters.

Graveside Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 20, 2019 at Bethel Cemetery in Bellmont, Illinois with Pastor Gary Underwood officiating. Dot will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Bob. No public Visitation will be held. Please meet at the cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Dot’s memory to the charity of your choice.

Envelopes will be at the Cemetery or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Dot’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Tolley family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com