Dorothy Mae (Majette) Tann

Dorothy Mae Majette Tann was born on Saturday, August 28th, 1926, in Rich Square, North Carolina, to the late Luther Paul Majette and Tempie Harvey Majette. She gained her heavenly wings on Thursday, March 12th, 2026, at ECU Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, North Carolina, surrounded by her loved ones and caring hospital staff.

Dorothy was raised and educated in Northampton County, North Carolina, in the W. S. Creecy School System. At an early age, she gave her life to Christ at Willow Oak African Methodist Episcopal Church. She often said, “It’s the only church I ever joined.” Her service and dedication to the church were extensive. For many years she faithfully served as an usher, a role she often said allowed her to carry out her duties while also keeping an eye on her children. Her ministry also included serving in the Pastor’s Aide Club, the Missionary Society, as a Class Leader, and with the Young People’s Division (YPD).

When the church established a Noon Day Bible Study, Dorothy embraced what would become one of her most cherished roles. She led this ministry with passion and commitment, teaching, cooking for church events, and coordinating guest speakers. She truly thrived in this position under the leadership of Pastor James Baker and the pastors who followed. She remained as active as she could for as long as possible, demonstrating her deep love for God’s people and her willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

At home, Dorothy grew up working on the family farm, assisting her parents with daily responsibilities. One day, while working in the cucumber patch, she met the love of her life, Charles Cleveland Tann. The two were united in marriage on December 23rd, 1947. From this union, God blessed them with eight children.

Farm life was the life they knew. Though times were often challenging, they never gave up. Dorothy and her husband worked side by side as a team, and she exemplified the role of a devoted wife and loving mother. As she raised her children, she remained deeply involved in their education and school activities. She never missed a single chapel program, an annual program held for each grade level, for any of her children. She faithfully attended Parent Teacher Association meetings and supported numerous school fundraising efforts. Although her children shared responsibilities on the farm, education was strongly emphasized in the home. As a result, every child who desired to attend college was able to do so.

Dorothy was also widely known as an exceptional cook. Many would say she was an even better baker than Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, or Pillsbury. Cakes, pies, and homemade rolls were among her specialties. While she had recipes, the true secret ingredient in her cooking and hospitality was love. Whether you were family or simply stopping by for a visit, Dorothy could make something out of nothing. If she knew you were coming, she made sure to prepare some of your favorite dishes. In her home, everyone was treated like family. Her children’s classmates, their friends as adults, and even her grandchildren’s friends experienced the “Dorothy Mae treatment.” She had a way of making each person feel like they were her favorite—and to her, they truly were.

Affectionately known as “Dot” by many, Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Luther Paul Majette and Tempie Harvey Majette; her beloved husband, Charles Cleveland Tann, Sr.; and her youngest child, John Kenny Tann. She was also preceded in death by all of her siblings: L. P. Majette, Annie Davis, Rudisill Bradley, Lola Tann, Herbert Boyce, and Willie Walden.

She leaves to cherish her memory seven loving children: Perquida Washington of Middletown, Delaware; Claudette Frazier (Stanley) of Wingdale, New York; Pamela Callens of Harrisburg, North Carolina; Charles Tann, Jr. (Carolyn) of Durham, North Carolina; Barbara Ramsey (Benjamin) of Raleigh, North Carolina; Judy Ingram of Rich Square, North Carolina; and Gary Tann (Gwen) of Garner, North Carolina. She also leaves her devoted daughter-in-law, Sabrina Tann; fifteen grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren, with one on the way; and one great-great-grandchild.

In addition, she leaves a brother-in-law, John Garner; a host of nieces and nephews; and numerous “bonus children” who lovingly called her Mom. She was also blessed with a dedicated caregiver of seventeen years, Gloria Alston, whose care and companionship meant so much to her and her family.

Dorothy Mae Majette Tann’s life was one marked by faith, family, service, and love. Her legacy will continue to live on in the many lives she touched.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Tann's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family.

The Caring Team of T. L. Faison's Funeral Care, LLC is privileged to provide

"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity"

to the family of Mrs. Dorothy Mae Majette Tann.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer.

*** In honoring Mrs. Tann's vibrant yet graceful spirit, the family kindly requests floral arrangements in shades of 

Purple and Lavender *** 

To ensure desired selections and a timely delivery, please contact: 

G's Florist

304 North Main Street  -  Emporia, Virginia 23847

434-532-2669

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dorothy Mae (Majette) Tann, please visit our floral store.