Dovey Cleveland's Obituary
Celebrating the life of Dovey Lorraine Hardin Cleveland
July 1st, 1926 – May 6th, 2026
We gather as family and friends to remember our beloved Dovey Lorraine Hardin Cleveland. Her kind, patient, compassionate, and hardworking spirit guided every part of her 99 years.
Dovey was born on July 1st, 1926, in Henning, Illinois, to William R. Hardin and Minnie A. Hardin. The values she learned at home stayed with her for life.
She later built a bustling household with her late husband, John E. (Jack) Cleveland. Together they raised sons Tom Cleveland and John Cleveland, and daughters Suzan L Peterson and Cathy Groom.
The family circle grew to include daughter-in-law Lisa Cleveland (deceased), daughter-in-law Sally Cleveland, and son-in-law Stan Groom. Each one benefited from Dovey’s steady encouragement and open-hearted support.
Service and activity filled her days. She was an avid golfer, a member of First Christian Church, a Girl Scout Leader and Cookie Chairman, and Director of Epochs Job’s Daughters Bethel 99.
Grandchildren were her delight: Darla Conaughty, Martin Christensen, Beth Ridgeway, Stuart Galloway, Lucas Galloway, Chad Cleveland, Ryan Cleveland, Jonathon Cleveland, and Victoria Stoldt. Their successes and milestones always brought a bright sparkle to her conversations. Those grandchildren gave her the gift of twenty-two great-grandchildren and eleven great-great-grandchildren.
Dovey passed away peacefully at Oakhill Senior Living and Rehab in Brooksville, Florida, on May 6th, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests gifts to the Alzheimer’s Association in her memory. We are grateful for every call, message, and quiet prayer offered on our behalf.
We will carry her steady love forward in the way we treat one another. Rest gently, Mom, Grandma, and friend; your example remains our guide.
What’s your fondest memory of Dovey?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dovey?
Share a story where Dovey's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dovey you’ll never forget.
How did Dovey make you smile?