Dorthy Joyce Harris

Dorthy Bowers McNeely Harris, 88, of Lake Charles, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 2, 2026.

Dorthy, affectionately known as “Dot,” was born on February 6, 1938, in Beaumont, Texas, to John Henry Bowers and Joyce Welch Bowers. She lived a life marked by dedication to her work and deep love for her family. Dot began her career as a court reporter while living in Lafayette, Louisiana, later serving as secretary to the Chancellor of LSU-E. After moving to Grand Chenier, she continued her career with the law firm of Jones, Jones & Alexander, where she worked faithfully for many years until her retirement.

Those who knew Dot will remember her as a steady and dependable presence, someone who valued hard work, cherished her family, and carried herself with quiet strength and grace. Dot’s life was one of quiet faithfulness and enduring love for those around her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Darlene McNeely; her son, Darryl McNeely; her grandchildren, Angela Doucet and husband Josh, Taylor Grimes and husband Justin, Heather McNeely Axeh, and Colby Vann; her brothers, Wayne Bowers and wife Sandra, and Boyd Bowers; along with numerous nieces and nephews who will continue to hold her memory close.

Dorthy was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Lawrence James “Jim” McNeely; her second husband, Joe Donald Harris; her brother, Alvie Donald Bowers; and her niece, Cheryl Lynn Bowers.

A funeral service will be held at 4:00 PM on Friday, April 10, 2026, in the chapel of Johnson Funeral Home, 4321 Lake Street. Visitation will begin at 12:00 noon and continue until the time of service. Cremation has been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to assist with funeral expenses.