Obituary of Dorothy Elizabeth Nellis

Dorothy “Dot” Elizabeth (Richtmyer) Nellis, age 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family, on November 23, 2023.  She was born in Gloversville on February 27, 1943, to the late Charles S. Richtmyer, and Caroline Kelley Richtmyer. Dot led a fulfilling life marked by love, adventure, and family. 

Dot was a 1961 Gloversville High School graduate, a Nurse's Aide at Nathen Littauer Hospital and worked for a short time at Winnings slipper factory, in Gloversville prior to becoming a devoted wife to Richard “Dick” Nellis. They were married on June 2, 1962.  With her husband being in the US Air Force, Dot embraced adventure, living in various states and overseas. Their travels enriched her life and those of her family, leaving them with a treasure trove of memories. They returned to Gloversville after Dick’s retirement from the USAF.  Dot and her family settled into a life enriched by the experiences and bonds of family.  

Dot was a loving mother who found joy in the simple pleasures of family life. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren and shared with them everything from her love of reading and putting puzzles together to card games and how to be a Monopoly shark, or any game for that matter!

Most famously, she was known for her love of elephants as shown through her vibrant collection of memorabilia from travels and cherished gifts from family members. She accepted everyone for themselves without judgement and advocated for others. She loved family gatherings and said that her family was the source of the most joy in her life.  Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support left an indelible mark on everyone she met.  Her legacy continues through her loving family and the countless memories shared. 

She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Dick, married for an admirable 61 years, two sisters, Catherine Nyland of Vermont, and Caroline Fitch of California; son, Kevin Nellis (Tae Jun Kwon); three daughters, Dorri DiPasquale (Glenn), Kelly Nellis, and Theresa Nellis-Matson (Jay) all of Gloversville; five grandchildren: Nicholas DiPasquale, Brandon DiPasquale, Sedrik Nellis, Skylar Matson, Benjamin Matson; three step-grandchildren: Christina DiPasquale, Jennifer Christman, and Brian DiPasquale; many cousins, nieces, and nephews. 

She is predeceased by her parents, brother Charles Richtmyer, sister Barbara R Nellis, and brother in-laws David Nellis, John Fitch, and Donald Nyland. 

The family expresses profound gratitude to all the staff at Mountain Valley Hospice.  The care they provided reflected the love and respect she deserved towards her final destiny.  

May she rest in peace and love. As we bid farewell to Dot, we cherish her memory and celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, and the joy of discovery. 

The family will receive relatives and friends from 10 am to 11 am Wednesday, November 29^th at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Homes, 51 Fremont St; Gloversville, where a funeral service will follow at 11 am with the Rev. Dr. R.W. Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Prospect Hill Cemetery Gloversville.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those wishing to express sympathy consider a donation to their favorite charity or Mountain Valley Hospice in Dot’s name.

Online condolences to the family may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com