Dorothy Varnado's Obituary
Dorothy M. Varnado (Dot) passed away peacefully on May 20, 2019 at Focused Care of Gilmer following complications from a broken hip in March. She was born on August 20, 1920 in Chaffee, MO, daughter of the late George Henry Bienert and Emma Enderle Bienert. She was married to Charles H. Varnado (Chuck), who worked for the railroad. They lived in Chicago, IL, Indiana, Ohio, Port Arthur, TX and finally retired in Gilmer, TX where Dot lived the rest of her life.
Dorothy is survived by her nephews George A. Bienert and his wife, Suzanne of Mineral Bluff, GA, J. Michael Bienert of Pocatella ID, and Anthony R. Bienert of Phelan, CA, plus her niece, Martha Goodin of Jefferson City, MO, and several great nephews and great nieces. She is also survived by Russell and Carla Jones, who were her dear friends and loving caregivers and were like family to her. In addition, she is survived by her beloved pets, Belle, Little Bit, Kitty Tom, Grey Grey, and Sister.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Varnado, her brother, Albert R. Bienert, her sisters, Bernice Dannenmueller, Elizabeth Garber, and Neona Ward, plus her niece, Virginia Webb.
Dorothy was a voracious reader with a feisty personality, a quick wit, and a generous heart. Besides reading she also enjoyed gardening, knitting, cooking, shopping, and purchasing gifts for friends and family.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Gilmer Apostolic Church on Tuesday, June 11 at 2 PM. Pastor Eddie Jones will officiate the service. Rader Funeral Home in Longview, TX is handling cremation arrangements. Amick-Burnette Funeral Chapel will be handling burial arrangements in Chaffee, MO at a later date.
What’s your fondest memory of Dorothy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dorothy?
Share a story where Dorothy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dorothy you’ll never forget.
How did Dorothy make you smile?

