Dorothy Winstead Obituary

Dorothy Jean Winstead

October 9, 1938 -

April 23, 2026

Dorothy Jean Winstead, 87, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on Thursday, April 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on October 9, 1938, Dorothy lived a life marked by faith, grace, and a deep devotion to her family and to God.

A godly woman in every sense, Jean was known for her gentle spirit, her servant's heart, and her love of singing, especially the hymns that anchored her soul. Whether singing in church, in the kitchen while preparing a meal, or on her iPad, her voice brought peace and joy to all who heard it.

Jean was a quick-witted person with a hearty sense of humor that could bring the entire room to a burst of laughter. Over the years, she loved competing in bowling and board games. She was made from the good stuff - sturdy, strong, loyal, and faithful. Daily, she made a difference in little and big ways throughout her journey in life.

Jean was a devoted wife to her beloved husband, Gerald Winstead, for over 60 years. Together, they built a home centered on faith, love, and family. Through life's joys and challenges, she remained a steady source of strength and encouragement, standing faithfully beside Gerald in all seasons of life. For many years, she steadfastly refused all suggestions of outside and long-term care for him and continued to meet his every need. She was a loving and supportive wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was always present, always encouraging, always cheering on those she loved most. Her pride in her family was evident in every smile and every story she shared.

Jean answered a late calling to education and began her teaching career at the age of 44. For 26 years, she poured her heart into her students, retiring at the age of 70. She loved her students dearly, and that love was returned many times over. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, as she mentored not only in academics but in kindness, integrity, and perseverance. Many of her former students remained close to her until the day she passed, a testament to the lasting impact she had on their lives.

Jean was preceded in death by her loving husband, Gerald Winstead; her son, Jerry Winstead; her parents, B.L. and Etta Wilder; and her brothers, B.L. Wilder Jr. and Bruce Wilder. Her family takes comfort in the knowledge that she is now reunited with them in Heaven.

Even in her later years, Jean continued to be a source of wisdom, warmth, and unwavering faith. She is survived by her daughter, Traycee Henegar (Brad) of Knoxville; and sons Randy Winstead (Dalynda) of Jonesborough, Mike Winstead (Sonya) of Maryville, and Jason Winstead (Erin) of Morristown. She was a proud grandmother to 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren who she embraced, supported, and loved. She is also survived by her sister, Barbara Gillespie of Seymour, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Jean's life was a beautiful reflection of the values she held dear: faith, family, and service to others. She will be remembered for her gentle words, her warm smile, and her song. Her incredible influence and fingerprint on the lives of her family members and community will live on for generations to come. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service that will continue to echo through the lives of those she touched.

The family will receive friends from 9:00 am to 11:00 am Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Christian-Sells Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am with Rev. Johnny Carr officiating. A private graveside service with the family will be held at Oak Hill Memorial Park in Kingsport at 2:00 pm.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.christiansells.com.