"I did not want to leave you all because I loved each of you in my own special way, but when God heard my secret cry, His angels came to take me home. I welcomed my departure from this land, for this world was never meant to be my permanent home. There was peace and serenity on this journey. My journey through this life is over, but my true journey has just begun. Do not cry for me — rejoice instead, for I am now free and resting in my new home."

The Life and Legacy of Dorothy Hooks Mitchell

Dorothy Louise Hooks, 71, affectionately known as "Polly" by family and friends, was born in Baldwin County, Milledgeville, Georgia, on May 5, 1954, to the late Eddie Hooks Sr. and the late Phyllis B. Hooks. She attended the public schools of Washington County and was a proud graduate of the Class of 1972.

Dorothy joined Mt. Sinai Baptist Church at an early age and later transferred her membership to Friendship Baptist Church, where she was an active member of the Usher Board and the WMBS Society, serving as secretary. She was also a dedicated member of the Hancock Baptist Association.

Her career included employment at Baldwin County Hospital, serving as a caregiver for the Geeter family, and working as a cook at Jet Food Store #29. Dorothy enjoyed cooking, reading, traveling, sipping her Coca-Cola, and cherishing time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On September 12, 2025, Polly peacefully transitioned to her eternal home with Jesus. She was united in marriage to the late Henry James Mitchell, and together they were blessed with four children. She was preceded in death by two children, Andre A. Mitchell and Shanika L. Mitchell, and siblings Phyllis M. Hooks, Pinkie F. Hooks, Eddie Hooks Jr., Brenda J. Hooks, and Mitchell Hooks.

Dorothy leaves to celebrate her life two daughters, Kenisha M. Hooks and Martesa C. Hooks of Milledgeville, Georgia, and one son, Marco D. Mitchell of South Carolina. She also leaves a legacy through her grandchildren: Lakedria Veal, JaTyrin Hooks, Kody (Teyairra) Henry, LyMesha Henry, Kayden Henry, DonTavious Waller, Siee Todd, Julian Todd, Rylee Palmer, Madisyn Hooks, and Gabriella Davis; and great-grandchildren: Melanie Hooks, Danquan Havior, and Adream Havior, all of Milledgeville, Georgia.

She is survived by siblings Minnie K. Reaves, Rickey Hooks, and Roderick Hooks Sr.; brothers-in-law James H. Jones and Marcus Dixon Sr.; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

Dorothy "Polly" Hooks will be deeply missed, and her memory cherished by all whose lives she touched.