Dorothy M. Baxley

Dorothy Rhodes Mattox Baxley, 64, passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Legacy at North Augusta in Staunton. A beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, and friend, her warmth, love, and laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was born on July 1, 1960, to Brigadier General Alvah Stone Mattox, Jr. and the late Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Willson Mattox.

Born in Staunton, Dorothy was raised in Richmond and attended Trinity Episcopal High School. She graduated from James Madison University with a degree in interior design. While in Harrisonburg, she met Dan, and they built a beautiful life together.

Dorothy found joy in her work downtown at Arthur’s and the Woodrow Wilson Birthplace Gift Shop. She later worked for sixteen years for the Children’s Art Network, in various roles and as Executive Director, where she deepened her passion for arts education and her commitment to nurturing creativity in young people. She was a dedicated volunteer in her children’s schools, the Augusta Garden Club, and Trinity Episcopal Church.

Dorothy had a gift for connecting with others - she made friends wherever she went and had a special way of making people feel at home. Her door was always open, and she always welcomed friends around her table. She treasured her community of family and friends in Staunton.

Dorothy is survived by her husband, Daniel Carlyle Baxley, Jr.; her father, Alvah Stone Mattox, Jr. of Staunton, VA; her children, Kathryn Elizabeth “Liz” Crowder (Michael) of Farmville, VA, and Willson Edward Baxley of Norfolk, VA; and two beloved grandsons, John “Jack” Mattox Crowder and Henry Carlyle Crowder.

In addition to her mother, Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Willson Mattox, she is preceded in death by her sister, Mary Sue Mattox Smith.

She is also lovingly remembered by her niece, Mary Scot McAllister Boyce (Matt), nephew, William Kenly McAllister, Jr. (Stacie), great-niece, Emory, and great-nephews, Cameron and Oscar.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, June 30, 2025, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Staunton with the Reverend William “AJ” Heine officiating.

Interment will follow at Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton.

The family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to Dorothy’s many doctors, nurses, and caregivers for their compassionate love, care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Dorothy’s memory to Legacy Hospice in Fishersville (650 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Ste 310, Charlottesville, VA 22911).