Dorothy "Dotti" Gilbert, 62, of De Soto died June 30, 2026. Ms. Gilbert graduated from De Soto High School in 1982 and earned a bachelor of science degree in Christian education from St. Louis Christian College in 1986. She served many roles throughout her life, including youth director at De Soto Christian Church, substitute teacher at Sunrise School District and a substitute teacher or paraprofessional for De Soto School District since 2007. She was known for her kindness and dedication, and her coworkers described her as genuine, compassionate and supportive. She enjoyed cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals as well as reading, watching movies and spending time with her friends. Born March 2, 1964, in Festus, she was the daughter of the late Loretta (Barteau) and Charles Gilbert Jr.
She is survived by several cousins from Ohio and Indiana; a Goddaughter: Elena Elkins, who is serving as a missionary in Scotland; many friends in Florida; and numerous other friends throughout Missouri.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister: Lori Ann Gilbert.
A graveside service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, in Woodlawn Cemetery in De Soto. A celebration of life will follow the graveside service from 11 a.m. until services at 11:30 a.m. at De Soto Christian Church, 4151 Fountain City Road, in De Soto. There will be a light lunch provided and guests are encouraged to wear red, Kansas City Chiefs or St. Louis Cardinals apparel. Memorials may be made to De Soto Christian Church at desotochristianchurch.org/giving.html or by texting “GIVE” to 833-250-9994. Arrangements are under the direction of Dietrich-Mothershead Funeral Home in De Soto.