Dornell Trotter
The journey of life for Mr. Dornell Trotter began in Church Hill, AR on March 28, 1934. He was the second child born to the late Matthew and Jannie Smith Trotter. Others that completed the journey of life before him include three sisters, Mary Lee, Norma Jean, Mary Jean; one brother, Tilden Trotter and a host of extended family.
He attended elementary school in Church Hill and high school in Macedonia, AR up until the 11th grade. While in school, Dornell met Narline Vaughn and they later wed on September 19, 1954 and to this union 3 children were born. He was a member of Camp Springs Baptist Church, when it came to his work for the Lord he was a quiet spoken man.
Dornell entered the workforce and worked various construction jobs until moving to Chicago. But after a brief few months there, his wife decided to relocate back home to warmer weather. His career path led him to going into the Army. He was a hard worker and a great provider for his family. Dornell was very family-oriented. He wanted the best for his children and grandchildren and taught them many life lessons. He tried to instill in them the value of hard work and paying your bills.
He worked for the Millwood Corp of Engineers as a heavy equipment operator for about 28 1/2 years before retiring. He was also an Equal Employment Opportunity Commissioner for Tri-Lakes. After retirement from that job, he did not sit still as that wasn’t in his nature. He worked part time for James (Buddy) Wilson at Wilson’s farms. He was also a longtime member of the Saratoga School Board serving various roles as a board member then later on as President of the School Board. Dornell was very popular and well respected within the Southwest Arkansas area and its communities. He was an upstanding member of the community and always lent a helping hand to those in need. He was also a charter member to the Saratoga Tri-County Lions Club with over 35 years of service. Most recently, he held the position of 1st Vice President. He was also a 32nd Degree Master Mason. He was member of the Tollette Senior Citizens until his health started to fail. Dornell loved to fish, but his real passion was hunting. Whatever he captured that day would more than likely be on the dinner table that night, be it deer, rabbit, squirrel, fish, or frog legs. He was an awesome domino player. Dornell loved life and lived it to the fullest. If he was your friend, he was a friend indeed. He never ever met a stranger. He was a source of joy, encouragement, and inspiration for all who knew him. He will always be remembered in our hearts and will be greatly missed. He loved hanging out at the Camp Springs Hunting Club with his nephews Roy, Eddie, Harold, Howard, Ricky and friend Gary. His wife Narline Vaughn Trotter of 55 1/2 years preceded him in death.
A lifetime of love and memories will be forever cherished by his children: Brenda (Artee) Porter of Tollette, AR, Donald Trotter and Dwight Trotter Columbus AR. He also leaves a powerful legacy of 9 grandchildren: Artee Jr. (TuTu), Kristie, Demetria, Lakendrick, Lil Don, Tavin, Cody, Christopher, Christian and 1great granddaughter: Trinity Deshay Porter. 3 Sisters in Law: Jewell Smith, Annie Lee Wyatt, Narbell Vaughn. 2 Brothers in Law: James (Buddy) Vaughn, Eddie Burns, Sr.
Two special nieces: Inez Gentry and Jacqueline Miller. A Special friend Flo Barber. His domino competitor Leroy (Crumb) Johnson as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and an innumerable number of cousins and friends.
Visitation will be 11:30-5pm Friday at the funeral home. Mr. Trotter will lie in state 9:30-10:30am Saturday before services which will begin 11am at the Saratoga Gymnasium in Saratoga. Burial will be at Camp Springs Cemetery in Columbus. Arrangements entrusted to Hicks Funeral Home, Inc.
