We note the passing of Dotty Oliver — former editor of the Little Rock Free Press, environmental activist and author of “Mistress of the Misunderstood,” a collection of her writings that includes essays like “Faith-Based Sadomasochism” and “What If Women Hadn’t Worn Earth Shoes?”
Oliver died Monday, May 29, from complications due to breast cancer. Her sister, Phyllis Oliver Carr, notes Oliver’s advocacy and character in a statement of memorial provided to us.
“Dotty lived a fascinating life that carried her on many adventures. But no matter what she was involved with at any given time, you can bet the end goal was to lift people up in the process, whether through education, enlightenment, employment, providing a helping hand or a shoulder to lean on, or just by being there to listen or to make us laugh. … . Dotty was not afraid to voice her opinion, which, while it may have either offended or endeared her to people, that was her way.”
There will be a memorial from 5 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Friday, June 2, at the White Water Tavern. In lieu of flowers, which Oliver reportedly hated to see being cut, the family requests that any donations in her honor be made to The Van (online at theoneinc.org or by check to The Van, 8016 Faulkner Lake Road, North Little Rock, AR 72117) to support Aaron Reddin’s work with the homeless community in Central Arkansas.