Dorothy Day
Dorothy “Dot” Dell Ainsworth Day, 77, of Crystal Springs, passed away on March 24, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Dot was born on March 16, 1949, in Covington County, the daughter of Alma Leon Ainsworth and Erma Leona Brewer Ainsworth.
She graduated from Magee High School in 1966 and continued her education at Co-Lin Junior College, earning an associate degree. She went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in education from Mississippi College in 1969. Later in life, Dot furthered her education by earning a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Mississippi College in 1995.
On Dec. 23, 1968, Dot married the love of her life, Charles Martin Day, at Morrison Heights in Clinton. They made their home in Crystal Springs for their 57 years of marriage. Together, they raised two daughters—Sharon and Stephanie—whom Dot supported wholeheartedly. She never missed an opportunity to be present at their band performances, school activities, or sporting events. Her love was constant, expressed through listening, encouraging, and offering an open heart. When grandchildren arrived, her joy only multiplied. She poured pride and affection into each of them, celebrating their achievements whether near or far. With the birth of her first great‑grandchild this past year, her love grew once more.
Dot gave selflessly to others—her students, her counseling clients, her community, and especially her church family. She had a unique gift for seeing the good in every person and seeking a positive path forward. Though she held strong opinions, her faith was even stronger.
For the last years of her life, Dot battled whole-body inclusion myositis. The illness was difficult and often limiting, but it never dimmed her keen mind or her spirited wit. During this time, she compiled, edited, and published several books with the help of friends and family, and she was actively working on a mystery novel at the time of her passing. Though her body slowed, her determination never wavered.
Dot loved spending time outdoors, tending to the flowers in her garden. In earlier years, she could always be found at the softball field—playing, coaching, or cheering on her loved ones. She was an avid reader and lover of music, always ready to “make a joyful noise unto the Lord” and “serve the Lord with gladness.” Now, she has “entered His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise,” running freely on streets of gold, her suffering turned into dancing.
Dot was a dedicated member of Gallman Baptist Church, faithfully serving on many committees throughout the years. She will be remembered for her kindness, humility, and gracious spirit. It is impossible to think of Dot without thinking of her devoted husband, Charles, who stood faithfully by her side throughout her illness, ensuring her needs were met while continuing to serve their church family. Together, they embodied a Christ-centered love, always willing to help others.
Left to cherish Dot’s memory are her loving husband, Charles; daughters, Sharon Mobley (John) and Stephanie Harris (Bill); grandchildren, Madalyn Lyles (Peyton), Courtney McMillian (Blake), Lauren Harris, and Will Harris; and great‑granddaughter, Mary Grace McMillian. She is also survived by her sisters, Lurlene Smith and Maxine Artman; her brother, Marshall Ainsworth (Cecilia); and many nieces and nephews.
Dot was preceded in death by her parents, Alma Leon and Erma Leona Ainsworth; her brothers, William Ainsworth, Joe Ainsworth, and Michael Ainsworth; and her sister, Georgene Davis.
Visitation will be held at 10 a.m. on March 28, at Gallman Baptist Church in Gallman, followed by a celebration of Dot’s life at noon. Festive spring attire is encouraged as we honor her home‑going and the joyous freedom she now knows. Interment will follow at Gallman Cemetery.
