Dorothy Midgley

Dorothy Marie Dearing Midgley was born on March 30, 1928 in Wellington, KS. She passed away October 4th in Ponca City. The youngest of six children, she lived in Oxford until she was 5, when the family moved to Newkirk. Her father had a trucking business, and her mother was a talented seamstress and cook. She graduated from Newkirk High School in 1946 before a successful career at the Kay County Clerk’s office. 

 Dorothy had a love for music, children, and the Lord. She felt a true longing for a relationship with Jesus that continued throughout her long life. A friend invited her to choir practice at the Presbyterian Church, and director Mary Yeary recognized her talent and worked to further develop her voice. The cello also served as an outlet for her musical gifts; her orchestra years were some of her happiest. 

 On May 12, 1957 she married Frank S Midgley, Jr. Their mutual interest in music brought them together, but they also shared their faith in God. They hosted many social activities and bridge parties. Frank was president of Eastman National Bank, and Dorothy was a homeroom mom, camp fire leader, and community volunteer. For over 30 years, she faithfully led a story hour with the residents of the Newkirk Nursing Home. She enjoyed supporting our troops through Operation Pioneer Spirit. Bible study was her passion.

 Dorothy and Frank had four children in eight years, and their home was filled with love and laughter. The family vacationed with station wagons, picnics, and swimming pools. Her favorite spot was her cabin at the family ranch and watching the stars “pop out”. Fortunately, Frank was wise enough to whisk her away on trips throughout Europe and America before he passed away in 1983. 

 Dorothy enjoyed being a mother and a volunteer, but it was the grandchildren who brought her the most joy. She was an animated book reader, a boisterous athletic supporter, and loyal fan for all activities. Soon there were great-grandchildren, and she was just as fascinated with them. Great memories were made each Father’s Day with a trip to Grand Lake, and every Sunday evening was pizza night. 

  For the past six years, Dorothy resided at Via Christi Ascension Living, where she formed a close bond with the staff who became like a second family to her, especially during the Covid period. She was provided with compassionate care by them and the dedicated team at Hospice of North Central Oklahoma.

 In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, George and Loula Dearing, her brothers Lester Dearing and Howard (Rita) Dearing, her sisters Fran (Paul) Dean, Margaret (John) Eaton, and Christine (George) Gerards, her son Frank “Cass” Midgley on February 26, 2024, brothers-in-law Bill (Anne) Midgley and Jack (Imogene) Midgley, and niece Derise Dearing. 

 Survivors include her daughters Maggi (Reagan) Hutchason, Mary (Steve) Austin, Carol (Rick) Scott, and daughter-in-law Mindi Midgley. Grandchildren surviving are Stephanie Brown, Luke Hutchason, Meghan Short, Brett Austin, Ryan Austin, Trevor Austin, April Knight, Hayden Scott, Lydia Midgley, Bethany Midgley, Rachel Midgley, and John Midgley as well as 14 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. 

 A celebration of life service will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, October 12, 2024, in the First United Methodist Church of Newkirk with Pastor Jim Hollifield officiating. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall. 

 In honor of Dorothy, donations can be made to the Dearing House Child Advocacy Center, a facility named in recognition of Dorothy and her siblings for their generous donation of the building. Donations may be mailed to 311 S 13th St, Ponca City, OK. 74601 or www.dearinghouse.com Your contribution will continue to support a cause that was close to her heart.