Dorothy “Dot” Lunceford Player, 96, of Rockingham passed away peacefully in the arms of her loving daughter, Kathy, on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025.
Dorothy was born to the late Jennie and Tom Lunceford.
Along with her parents, Dorothy is preceded in death by her first husband, John Bryant, and her second husband, Addison G. Player. Also preceded in death by her stepson, Addison “A.G.” Player.
Dorothy was born and raised in Rockingham where she lived out her happy and faithful life. She attended Rockingham High School and later retired from J.P. Stevens as a textile weaver and cloth inspector.
Dorothy was a precious soul and never met a stranger. She had the sweetest smile and biggest heart. Dorothy exemplified doing unto others as you would have others do unto you. She was a member of East Rockingham Free Will Baptist Church and loved to spread the word of God. She was truly a faithful servant and rarely missed a chance to speak of God’s love.
Her genuine heart and kindness to others will always be her legacy. She loved her family and would always say, “Isn’t it great to be together?” She will be missed greatly by many and would tell us all to “Keep on keeping on”.
Dorothy is survived by her only daughter, Kathy Bryant, of the home who was her best friend. She is also survived by her grandson, Ronnie Chavis and his wife Aimee of Randleman; sister Faye Ivey of Rockingham; stepdaughter Doris Thornloe and her husband Keith of Weaverville; stepdaughter-in-law Carolyn Player of Rockingham; step-grandchildren, James Player and wife Christinna of Rockingham, Kim Emery and husband Rob of Rockingham, Stewart Thornloe of Virginia and David Thornloe of Mars Hilll; great-grandchildren, Kylie Chavis of Randleman, Dylan Foster and wife Elle of Asheboro and several more. Dorothy also leaves behind her beloved friend, Cora Stuart, whom quickly became family many years ago. The family would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to Cora and her family for the love and kindness shown to Dorothy in her final moments.
The family will receive friends for visitation Friday, Jan. 2, 2026 from 12:45 pm to 1:45 p.m. at East Rockingham Free Will Baptist Church. A funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. with Preacher Johnny Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Richmond Co. Memorial Park Cemetery.
Online condolences can be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com. Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is assisting the Player family.
