Terre Haute, Indiana - TERRE HAUTE - Dorothy Mae Volkers, 85, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, at Springhill Village, where she was affectionately known for her bright personality, her love of visiting with friends, and her fondness for cookies and candy.

Dorothy dedicated her life to the education and love of children. For many years, she owned and operated her own pre-school before transitioning into public education as a kindergarten teacher. She touched countless young lives throughout her career, ultimately retiring from Ben Franklin Elementary School. Following her retirement, Dorothy's greatest joy was dedicating her time to her grandchildren and cooking delicious meals for her family.

She was an avid gardener who loved tending to her beautiful flower beds, watching the birds, and caring for her beloved dogs. Her happiest summers were spent surrounded by family and friends making memories up at Lake Winona. Dorothy also held a special fondness for Christmas, a holiday she loved celebrating with the family she cherished so deeply.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Stewart William Volkers; sister, Roberta Cole; and granddaughter, Meg Dillion.

Dorothy leaves behind a large, loving legacy, including her three sons: Brian Dillion and his wife, Paula; their children Nathan (wife Breana and daughter Declyn) and Ben (fiancée Mackenzie); Doug Dillion and his wife, Terri; their children Olivia Lundin (husband Nate and sons Boston and Lincoln) and Douglas Dillion (wife Tasidee and daughter Sutton); Scott Dillion and his longtime girlfriend, Stephanie; and his daughters Lanee (fiancé Tyler) and Kennidy.

She is also survived by her beloved stepdaughters, Nancy Volkers (daughters Sascha and Zoey) and Mary Volkers (wife Kaila); as well as Gregg (girlfriend Gina) and his children Carson, Callista, and Carter, who shares a special bond as a half brother to her sons.

Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Dorothy's life on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at DeBaun Funeral Home in Terre Haute, Indiana, Visitation from 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM with funeral service to follow at 1:30 PM in the funeral home with Pastor Scott Telle officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Vigo County Education Foundation to benefit at-risk students, honoring Dorothy's lifelong commitment to education and young children.

Online condolences may be left at:

www.debaunfuneralhomes.com