Early Life and Family Background

Born in Huntsville, Alabama, on May 13, 1951, Dozier was the daughter of Haywood Edwards and Clara (Hurt) Edwards. She was brought up in Chattanooga and finished her elementary education through the city’s public school system, later joining Riverside High School from where she graduated in 1969. Following high school, Dozier went on to attend Alabama A & M University.

Marriage and Settlement in Chattanooga

The year 1970 was significant for Dozier, as she tied the knot with Gerald “Wayne” Dozier, the love of her life. The couple was blessed with a daughter, Terri Delaine Dozier. For some years following their marriage, the family lived a military lifestyle while Wayne served his country. This union continued for 38 years, up until Wayne’s death.

On returning to Chattanooga, Dozier embarked on her work journey with the UTC, starting as a Department Secretary at the UTC Advancement Office. Her tenure at the university lasted 20 years before she eventually retired. During her time in Chattanooga, Dozier was an active member of the Glenwood Business and Professional Women Organization.

Predeceased and Surviving Family Members

Betty Ann Edwards Dozier was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald DeWayne Dozier; her parents, Haywood and Clara (Hurt) Edwards; and her sisters, Geraldine Edwards Stodgell, Vivan Edwards Simms, and Candice Edwards. Her father and mother-in-law, Eddie J. and Addie L. Dozier; brothers-in-law, Robert J. “Dusty” Dozier, Clifford L. Dozier, and Gregory D. Dozier; and sister-in-law, Labernice “Bonnie” Dozier, have also departed.

Dozier is survived by her daughter, Terri D. Dozier of Nashville, TN; her grandsons, Gerald D. Jackson, Shakil L. Jackson, and Trevon Jackson, all of Nashville; as well as six great-grandchildren. Her brothers, Lebron Edwards of Chattanooga, Dr. Lloyd Edwards of Birmingham, AL, and Haywood Edwards, III of Los Angeles, CA; her sisters, Drs. Sarah (Jessie) Broadnex, Theresa “Vickie” (Dozier) Kellum, and Carolyn Dozier, all of Chattanooga; remain along with several nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, and other kinsfolk, as well as an entire community that fondly remembers her contribution to the city.

Funeral Arrangements

Dozier’s funeral service is set to take place at the Taylor Funeral Home chapel on Monday, July 1, 2024, at 12 noon, with Dr. Jessie Broadnax officiating the ceremony as the eulogist. Prior to the funeral service, Dozier will lie in state at the funeral home starting at 9 a.m. Burial will be conducted at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.