Dorothy Hines-Chestang was born on July 5, 1927, to Elam and Katie Powell in Shreveport, LA. Dorothy gave her life to Christ at an early age, and by the time she was twelve years old, she was playing the piano for CME Temple Church Choir in Shreveport, LA. Dorothy’s mother had discerned the gift in her and sacrificed every week to make sure that Dorothy was able to attend piano lessons.
During Dorothy’s school years, she played for the school band and other school activities. At her high school graduation, Dorothy, played the Celebration March.
Dorothy arrived in San Diego, California, in 1944 to wake up some and shake up others, and that she did. Sis Dorothy served many churches, gospel groups, choirs, soloists, and other organizations. These are just a few, (Phillips Temple Rev. Jenkins, Pastor), (Trinity Baptist Church Rev. Tim Burts, Pastor), (Linda Vista Second Baptist, Rev. E. Graves, Pastor), (Cornerstone Baptist Rev. H. Jackson, Pastor), (Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist, Dr. C. Johnson, Pastor), (Galilee Baptist, Dr. E. Edward Jones, Pastor, Shreveport, LA). Dorothy was elevated to Supervisor of Music at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in 1975.
Dorothy was also a musician for the State Congress, State Conventions, and the Progressive District Association – Dr. S.M. Lockridge, Moderator. Sis. Dorothy received many awards, certificates, trophies, and commendations. On April 29, 1994, Dorothy was presented with her own day, Dorothy Hines-Chestang Day, in the City of San Diego. Through her music ministry, God‘s people have been inspired, highly lifted up, delivered, and set free.
Dorothy departed this life on September 14, 2022. She has crossed the Jordan River and walked through the pearly gates on streets paved with gold to her mansion in the sky. There she will receive the Crown of Life. She is now with her Lord and Savior, whom she has adored, glorified, and magnified.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her mother, father, sisters, brother, husbands, and friends. She leaves to cherish her memory one son, Robert Henry Gilmore III (Marilyn), of San Diego; daughters, Dr. Marva J. Hines of San Diego, and Apostle, Dr. Paula Hines (Curtis) of Phoenix, AZ; granddaughter, Judge Velva Thompson (Terrence); grandson Marvin Anson Hines Hamlin; granddaughter Cristina Irvin (Quentin); four great-grandchildren, London Thompson, Justice Hines Thompson, Kaydence Irvin, and Kingston Irvin; many godchildren, nieces, nephews, spiritual children, adopted family, and dear friends.
