Tallahassee Says Goodbye to a Beloved Educator and Advocate
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – The community mourns the loss of _Dorothy Marie Nelson Binger_, affectionately known as Dot, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 3, 2024. Friends and family will gather to pay their respects during a public visitation on December 10, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at _Culley’s MeadowWood Funeral Home_, located at 700 Timberlane Road. A funeral service is scheduled for December 11, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at _Trinity United Methodist Church_, situated at 120 Park Avenue. Following the service, family members will hold cemetery services at the _Tallahassee Memory Gardens_ at a later date.
A Life of Dedication and Service
Dorothy’s life began on a farm near _Bushnell, Florida_, where she was born to _Blanche_ and _Henry Nelson_ as the eighth of nine children. She attended public schools in Bushnell before graduating from _Florida State College for Women_ in 1946. Her commitment to education continued as she earned her master’s degree from _Florida State University_ in 1949.
In 1944, Dot married _Robert D. (Bob) Binger_, who was serving in the United States Navy during World War II. The couple faced separation during his service, but Dot continued her education and worked in various office roles, including at Great Lakes Naval Training Station and Treasure Island.
A Nurturing Mother and Influential Educator
Dot became a devoted mother with the arrival of her daughter _Norma_ in 1957 and son _Greg_ in 1959. After the passing of Bob in 1968, Dot maintained her focus on family while embarking on a distinguished career in education that spanned public schools, community colleges, and universities.
Her teaching career was primarily centered in the business field, with an emphasis on accounting. She imparted knowledge at institutions such as _Auburn University_, _Florida State University_, and _Pensacola Junior College_. Dot played a crucial role in the development of _Tallahassee Community College_, joining as its third employee in 1966, ultimately retiring in 1991 after serving as the Director of the Applied Sciences Division.
A Legacy of Volunteering and Advocacy
In retirement, Dot became highly involved in volunteer work, significantly impacting her community. She dedicated her time to _Trinity United Methodist Church_ for over 60 years, showcasing her commitment to service and spirituality. Her work extended to _Envision Credit Union_, where she volunteered for 40 years, and she was among the founding board members of the _PACE Center for Girls/Leon_, advocating for the needs of young girls in the community.
Dot was also deeply invested in child advocacy as a _Guardian ad Litem_ for 35 years, working tirelessly for the benefit of over 90 children in the Second Judicial Circuit.
Surviving Family and Memorial Contributions
Dot is remembered by her son _Greg Binger_ of Bangkok, Thailand, and daughter _Norma Binger Parrish_ of Tallahassee, who is the mother of _Tara_ and _Tommy_. Many others, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren, also cherish her memory.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to the _Tallahassee State College Foundation_ for the _Dorothy Binger Scholarship_, aimed at supporting students who have been in the foster care system.
Community Remembers a Remarkable Woman
With a rich legacy of love, learning, and leadership, Dorothy Marie Nelson Binger leaves behind a remarkable imprint on the lives she touched throughout her extensive life. She will be dearly missed by many in the Tallahassee community who were fortunate enough to know her.
