Dorothea Pugh Plikerd

Dorothea Pugh Plikerd, 87, of Spencerville, passed away at 9:45 a.m. Monday, January 13, 2020, at Roselawn Manor.

She was born September 6, 1932, in Venedocia, the daughter of John Owen and Emerald Sayers Pugh, who both preceded her in death. On February 25, 1951, she married Wesley F. Plikerd, who died November 6, 2011.

Survivors include two granddaughters, Rachel (Bryan) Sipe and Laura (Josh) Lyle; five great-grandchildren; a niece, Kathy (Bob) McCollow, three nephews, Owen (Karen) Pugh, Bob (Denise) Pugh, and Eric (Jen) Pugh, a sister-in-law, Judy Abbott; and a former son-in-law; Doug Ruen.

She was preceded in death by two daughters, Julie (Mark) Stechschulte and Janet Ruen; a brother, Hugh (Evelyn) Pugh; and one niece, Nikki Abbott.

She had been very active in the Spencerville Chapter 130, Order of Eastern Star, and was a member for 65 years. She served as worthy matron in 1962 and past grand marshal for the Grand Chapter of OES in 1986. She enjoyed her travels with the OES and established life-long friendships.

Dorothea graduated from York High School in 1950 and went on to attend Ohio Northern University, majoring in elementary education. She taught at Hoaglin-Jackson and Spencerville schools. She then felt the need to help her husband on their dairy farm and she raised chickens and also sold eggs to all the neighbors for many years. 

She found time between chickens and farm work to sit down to her sewing machine. In addition to making dresses for her girls and numerous outfits for family members, she launched her own dress making business. From wedding dresses to coat alterations, she had a constant flow of customers to her door. Upholstery and painting were also mastered by her busy hands. She, along with her husband, made numerous gifts from wood each year for family Christmas gifts.

Anyone associated with Dorothea knew that she was a true patriot. She had great respect for her country and was an avid reader of the political scene. Often times when you knocked on her door she would say “enter if you are a Republican”. All political parties were allowed to enter, but after your visit, you knew exactly where she stood. Needless to say, she flew her flag proudly, and did not hesitate to remind others to do the same.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 15, at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville, with Pastor Tom Emery officiating. Burial will follow in Spencerville Cemetery.

Visitation is after 10 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, where the Order of Eastern Star will conduct services at 10:45 a.m.

Preferred memorials: Salem Presbyterian Church in Venedocia.

Condolences may be expressed at tbayliff@woh.rr.com.