Dorothy Pierre
E-card in Dorothy’s memory, courtesy of Patricia Jackson
A Smile That Will Never End
By Patricia Jackson, Dorothy’s friend
My name is Patricia Jackson, and I am more than happy to tell you about my old friend, Dorothy. We didn't speak everyday, but when necessary, she was there for me and I for her. I loved Dorothy, because in her own playful way she gave me hope and the hope that she bestowed upon me in reference to leaving the prison and going home was the hope that I too, held in my heart for her. When thinking back, I want you and many others to know that Dorothy was a woman, but she was inquisitive, playful, and childlike in a sense, which brought smiles to many faces. She enjoyed getting her hair done and dressing her hair with beautiful bows, and she was, at times, a people watcher......smile. She loved sitting outside, drinking coffee, and watching everyone go about their everyday lives, but most of all, she loved her family, and she talked about them every chance she could to anyone who would Iisten. Although she was a very meek and humble person, I knew that she didn't tolerate anything that was wrong, and she stood her grounds when defending herself. Dorothy was an inspiration to so many, but in the end, her voice was not heard or taken seriously by staff or security. She and others in this place don't have the ability or the voice that is needed to get the attention necessary. Dorothy is no longer here, but she is not forgotten. She is now resting in total peace with her maker, and she is at rest. I have cried for Dorothy, but the tears are gone, and there is a smile on my face, because I know she is dressing her hair in ribbons while watching and smiling down on her family.
I was very proud to have been a part of Dorothy's life. … [I] will never forget her loving smile that she had for everyone. … I have included an e-card in hopes that you will be able to attach this to her memorial. I want her family to know that just like this card, Dorothy is on the path that God has chosen for her; therefore, they should stay on the path of remembering the happiest times with her and her smile that will never end.
From Mourning Our Losses:
On April 22, 2020, the world lost a beautiful, smiling ray of sunshine. Her name was Dorothy LaVera Pierre. Dorothy was a woman described by many loved ones as faithful, humble, and joyful. Her life was drastically cut short at the age of 60 in Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana while she was incarcerated at Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women at Hunt. Of Dorothy’s many hobbies, she loved “sitting outside, drinking coffee, and watching everyone go about their everyday lives,” as explained by her friend Patricia Jackson. Dorothy especially loved talking about her family and would bring them up as often as she could. She is survived by her siblings; her loving three children, Tyrone, Daryl, and Precious; her seven grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
An image of Dorothy in her cap and gown, obtained from her obituary.
Here are a few words from people close to Dorothy:
From her friend Deirdre Pierre: “Dorothy Pierre had a son that adored her. She was scheduled to go before the pardon board this month... She died in the hospital after contracting Covid in LCIW@ Hunt. We have been displaced since the 2016 flood…[Dorothy] had underlying health issues, diabetes... Personality wise, Dorothy was sweet as pie. She knew she would not make it so she asked the pastor to pray for her family. I do not believe any of the ladies had family by their side.”
From her friend Barbara, in a tribute on Dorothy’s online obituary: “Dorothy was a faithful attendant at our Monday night service. She had a meek and humble spirit and we looked forward to seeing her each week. While her passing fills us with sorrow, we can look forward to the day when we will all meet in heaven without restrictions. Please know that she had people who loved her and appreciated the woman she had become.”
Dorothy was a wonderful woman who fought tirelessly against the COVID-19 virus that ultimately took her life. Dorothy was scheduled for a hearing with the Louisiana Board of Pardons and Parole on May 18, 2020 — less than a month after her death. Dorothy’s consistent bravery and strength against a system that constrained her free spirit will always stand as an inspiration to many. Dorothy will continue to shine her bright light down from above as she will be remembered forever by friends and family. May her mind, body, and soul rest in peace.
This part of the memorial was written by MOL team member Anaheed Mobaraki with information from correspondence with Dorothy’s friends Deirdre Pierre and Patricia Florant, reporting by Chris Staudinger of Antigravity Magazine, and Dorothy’s online obituary.
