DOTTIE RAMBO FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS May 11, 2008
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Monday, May 19, 1:00 PM – MEMORIAL SERVICE
Dottie Rambo home-going celebration service:
Christ Church
15354 Old Hickory Blvd.
Nashville, TN 37211
Saturday, May 17, 4-8 PM – VISITATION
Sunday, May 18 from 2-4 PM – VISITATION
Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home
660 Thompson Lane
Nashville, TN 37204
Visitations and memorial service: open to the public.
There will be a private reception for close friends and relatives at the church on Monday, May 19 from 11 AM – 12:30 PM.
Private entombment: mausoleum at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Memorial Park will be for family only immediately following her Home-going Celebration.
Remembering Dottie Rambo 
I was very saddened to hear about Dottie’s passing. She was a wonderful lady! The greatest gospel singer in the world! I had the great honor of meeting her a couple years ago at a concert in Boise, Idaho and have my picture taken with her. I will always treasure that picture. She was truly an angel on earth. I pray for Reba and her family and those that were injured. May God be with you all.
I was privileged to hear Dottie in concert just a few days prior to her leaving this world-I have never been in the presence of such greatness-the sweet presence of the Holy Spirit was all over her-I feel saddened by the loss, yet rejoice because there is no doubt that she will now “be teaching the angels” to sing.
I knew Dottie Rambo and Larry Ferguson very well.DOTTIE WAS a sweetheart. I loved her to death. Larry, her Manager was a great guy. I got to know them @ Emerald when I was working during the recording of “Stand By The River” with Dolly Parton. I had lunch catered in and we laughed and talked and took lots of photos. I will cherish those photos now of Dottie with Dolly. I also worked w/ them again during the CCMA Awards a few years ago when Dottie sang after she had her stroke a year so earlier. I WISH Larry Ferguson, his wife and family well and also hope that Chris and Ronnie recover too. There is a LARRY FERGUSON FUND set up at Citizens bank in Springfield, MO if you want to assist w/ food/hotel while they are in hospital. I called just now and got info. Citizens National Bank’s phone is (417) 887-4200 for more information and the routing/acct number to help Larrys Fund… bless them all.
3. Sis. Martha – May 13, 2008
Early Monday morning on AM 890 WLS Radio, half asleep I heard that
Dottie was killed in an accident. That is all I heard and went back to
sleep until later that morning. On my way to a “Bible Study”, a picture
of the bus was now on Fox News Station, and it was then I learned that we lost our Beloved/Gifted of God Song Writer on coutless most
blessed songs ever written “Dottie Rambo” whom I have listened to
her music for 50 of my 63 years upon this earth. Our loss, but God
and Heaven gainful saint is now home…the Home she wrote about.
As I viewed the web sites in tribute to our Blessed Saintly writer, tears
streamed down my cheeks a voice has left this world forever. But all
of 2,500 plus songs that God had given her will be heard for many,
many, years to come. Now as I close, I would ask God(Jesus Christ) to
touch those yet in the hospital and raise them up for His glory, mostly
to that God would comfort her family she has so suddenly left, comfort and heal their broken, grieving hearts as well as all of us
that are grieving in our hearts too. I never met Dottie, but I loved her
Music, and how they helped me go through life alot easier. Thank You
Dottie for what you gave/left for us to enjoy until Jesus comes for us
all to take us Home to join Him and all of Heaven one day! And most
assuredly Dottie’s teaching angel’ how to sing now. Hallelujah!!!
I only found out who Dottie Rambo was within the last year. I was given her song “Sheltered in the Arms of God” by my piano teacher to re-harmonize the chords. I absolutely fell in love with her music through this song. Being a bit obsessive, I began researching Dottie and learned everything about her and her beautiful music.
Even though I only “knew” her a short time, I feel very saddened by her loss and the music world’s great loss. This shows her great power and talent to be able to touch someone so deeply after a short time.
However, I rejoice in the fact that Dottie is now truly sheltered in the arms of God. May God bless her immortal soul.
Dottie Rambo has had an influence on all my life……..As a young girl, my mother took me to see The Singing Rambos in Knoxville, TN. My interest grew in gospel music because of people like Dottie, the Gaithers, the Speers, and on and on I could go naming the gospel greats.
It wasn’t until just within the last few years that I was priviledged to see Dottie again in person. Dolly Parton’s theme park, Dollywood, in Pigeon Foge, TN hosts an annual gospel singing event in the fall that invites many Southern Gospel artists. We live in nearby Kingston, TN and the first year Dottie was there, I remember missing our Sunday evening service (even tho I am the pianist) to go see her! And my, how my heart was blessed!
Dottie was performing in the chapel in the park and it was full to overflowing for every performance! We (my husband & I) finally got a place to stand just outside the side door, when a person on the front seat offered to ‘scoot over’ and make room for us to sit! While Dottie was singing, the tears flowed from ‘my cup running over’! I have never sat under the ministry of a person with such anointing from God! Since I was sitting on the front row, I was able to make eye contact with Dottie and I do believe she knew what I was feeling. Afterwards, she signed an old piece of sheetmusic I had brought with me and was so gracious even tho the temperature had dropped and she had to be freezing!
Every year since, our visits to Dollywood in the fall, have been planned aound when Dottie would be there. The next year and the next, Dollywood put her in the larger theatres and it was still full to overflowing! 🙂 Our adult children even began to plan their visits when they could see her and are so glad they did!
At times when we could not get to speak to Dottie, we found her manager, Larry and his precious wife and Chris were just as gracious as Dottie. What a team for ministry!
I am so thankful for so many wonderful memories……..especially those that are so personal to me.
When I heard the news of the wreck, so many of Dottie’s songs raced through my head………and continued on through the night and into the next day and the next………and I know they will go on. As I said of my mom on her homegoing……her faith has now become sight!
Love, thoughts and prayers to all of her team and especially her daughter, Reba and her family. May the things Dottie wrote about in her songs be the strength that will help them to face the days ahead and to carry on.
May 13,2008
My heart was so saddened when we read the news. I have always loved the Rambo Family and have gone to their concerts for years.
Everytime they would start to sing the awesome songs sister Dottie had written. The Holy Spirit would show up what a sweet spirit! She
was the real deal! I know that heaven is sounding sweeter as sister
Dottie walks the streets of gold . I love that song Tears Will Nerver Stain The Streets of That City. How true it is. How wonderful to know that if we have given our life to Christ that we have this promise. To be absent from the body is to be in the presence of the Lord. God bless Reba and all the Family as they have suffered a great loss. But God in faithful and he will be with you all the way.
God Bless You All,
Faye Johnson
I am still in shock having heard that this world has lost one of the most annointed singers and song writers. However, I believe she is Teaching Angels How to Sing, and her Tears Will Never Stain the Streets of that City!
She has blessed multiplied millions for many years and because of her annnointed music millions will continue to be blessed!
This worlds loss is heavens gain! Dottie you were Loved and will be Missed!
Thank God for such a faithful servant as Dottie. I am saddened to hear of her passing but ” we know absent from the body is present with the Lord”. Dottie will live on forever through her beautiful songs. Our loss is heaven’s gain. Thank God for such a beautiful present in the person of Dottie. May God bless & strengthen her family during their loss.
Dottie Rambo was a wonderful woman! I had the opportunity to meet her in person in Ada, Oklahoma, a year or so ago. Her music will live on forever in our hearts. May God bless her family and friends as we share in this loss here, but in Heaven’s gain.
DOTTIE, WAS THE GREATEST SONG WRITER OF ALL TIMES, I’VE BEEN LISTENING TO HER MUSIC FOR FORTY PLUS YEARS, I HAD THE HONOUR OF MEETING DOTTIE IN NASHVILLE AT THE CCA CONVENTION IN 2004 AND HAVE SEVERAL PICTURES OF HER FROM THAT CONVENTION, THAT WE WILL CHERISH. I SAT AND LISTENED TO HER MUSIC LAST NIGHT AND CRIED TO THINK THAT SHE IS GONE, BUT HER PAIN AND SORROW HAS BEEN LIFTED, SHE’S SHELTERED IN THE ARMS OF GOD. HEAVEN’S GAIN OUR LOSS. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH HER FAMILY AND THE OTHER FAMILIES THAT WERE ENVOLVED IN THIS ACCIDENT. DOTTIE RAMBO WILL BE MISSED.
I just found out today that this dear saint of God Dottie went home to be with the Lord. My heart is saddened but yet rejoicing that is with Jesus the one she lovingly sang about all these years. i enjoy her music so very much and she will be greatly missed. My prayers are the family and for those who has being injured. She is now sheltered in the arms of her belovedjesus.
Dottie Rambo was my favorite singer— when I was just 4 yrs old I would sit for hours & listen to New Shoes! She was a true gift from God and she will be greatly missed. She has fulfilled the dream of her great song We Shall Behold Him…Dottie is in the Father’s presence now, with HER new shoes! We pray for all her family that God will strengthen them through this most difficult time.
There will never be another Dottie Rambo. My 72 year old grandmother was a huge fan! Dottie was in Jacksonville, Texas a while back and my grandmother went to visit her and was able to get on her tour bus. She wil treasure that always. Our loss is Heaven’s gain, the songs she sang and wrote was tru gospel music through and through. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family and those injured in the bus crash. She is truly “Sheltered in the Arms of God”
Dotti Rambo was no average lady. And a LADY she was. Gracious and kind beyond measure. Her tallent is undisputed, and has blessed more people than she could possibly know., but who she was, her verry essence, will be greatly missed.
There are no words…………..
To Reba and Donny, Thank you also for sharing your tallent with the world . I am so so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
We had the honor to host the Singing Rambos in 1976 on the Blackfoot Reservation, Brocket, Alberta. We lacked proper facilities for a concert and attempted to cancel their appearance. They refused to cancel and insisted on ministering on a Native American Reservation. Many lives were impacted through their ministry. This was the year that Dottie wrote “Holy Spirit thou art welcome in this place”. We had the joy of being one of the first of many places that this was released. We received this as a very strong prophetic statement for Holy Spirit to reside in Native American communities throughout this continent. We continue to pray toward that end. “Omnipotent Father of mercy and grace, thou art welcome in this place.” Dottie now joins the general assembly (Hebrews 12) and the “cloud of witnesses” to cheer us on to a victorious finish in the Kingdom of the God in the earth!!
Ms Dottie, You were always a lady in the truest sense of the word. You always welcomed anyone you met with an open heart and an open mind. May God Bless You and May You Rest In Peace!
I ALONG WITH MANY PEOPLE AM DEEPLY SADDENED AND SHOCKED BY DOTTIE’S PASSING.I HAVE BEEN SO BLESSSED TO SING DOTTTIE RAMBO’S SONGS THROUGH MY WALK WITH THE LORD.. THEY ARE SO ANNOINTED! ONE OF MY FAVORITE SONGS “HOLY SPIRIT THOU ART WELCOME IN THIS PLACE” PLUS MANY MORE.
I SEND MY BLESSINGS AND PRAYERS TO REBA, DONNY AND ALL THE FAMILY AND CLOSE FRIENDS AND THE OTHERS THAT WERE INJURED IN THE CRASH .LORD STRENGTHEN THEM. HOLY SPIRIT COMFORT THEM. GOD BE WITH YOU…
I am assured that Dottie Rambo…..was welcomed home by her Father in heaven. She has now beheld the beauty of heaven that she so beautifully wrote about all of her life. There will never be another Dottie Rambo. Her talents were annointed with each word she ever wrote. Her songs ministered to the multitudes, her life was a miracle after all the things she had been thru. She will be missed but her songs will live on. Sweet Dottie we love you.
Dottie was an awesome song writer, I listened to the Rambo’s music.
Without the songs of Dottie,Christian music would not be the same. She is going to be greatly missed.
My earliest memory of Dottie and the Rambos was a singing at the Cadle Tabernacle in Indianapolis, around 1962. I recall that the Speers were also on the program. That night a man in the audience sitting near us got happy in the Lord, swinging his overcoat around over his head. What an impression such moving music made upon me, a 3 year old at the time. I’ve followed Southern Gospel music ever since and eventually wrote some songs of my own that charted.
We have certainly lost a legend – both as an artist and a writer. Her styling was so heart-felt. May the Lord bless her memory and comfort her family.
DOTTIE RAMBO______ WHAT CAN I SAY, MY LIFE WAS SO TOUCHED BY DOTTIE’S SINGING. I DID NOT ABOUT JESUS NOR HIS LOVE FOR ME UNTIL I WAS 17 YRS. OLD, COUNTRY MUSIC WAS ALWAYS BIG IN MY LIFE UNTIL I HEARD THE SINGING RAMBOS, MY LATE HUSBAND MADE SURE THAT I HAD EVERY ALBUM, TOOK ME TO SEE HER EVERY TIME THEY CAME NEAR DALLAS. MY CHILDREN SAY EVEN TODAY THAT THEY WENT TO BED HEARING DOTTIE SING AND GOT UP HEARING HER SING. WHEN DOTTIE CAME TO PARIS ABOUT TWO YEARS AGO, I WAS WORKING IN DALLAS AND COULD NOT GET OFF TO SEE HER. MY SON WHO IS 32, WENT AND BOUGHT ME HER BOOK AND CD FOR MOTHERS DAY THAT YEAR. LORD I THANK YOU FOR USING DOTTIE RAMBO. MAY THE ANGELS BE SELINT FOR HER TO SING.
I was shocked and heartbroken Sunday afternoon when I heard about Dottie. I was about 11 when I first heard on of her records and loved the songs! When I was 15 I went to my first Rambo concert and still have a autographed picture of Dottie. The next year we saw her again and I had my picture taken with her. Pricless treasures! There will never be another Dottie and I will miss her beyond words. My prayers are with Reba and her family and the others who were on the bus.
I will never recover from the loss of this saint of God. I stopped on the highway on Saturday and called her to wish her a Happy Mothers Day. She was so delighted and I was ecstatic that I got to talk to her. She informed me she was on the road traveling to the sing in Texas. I knew Dottie very well and we spoke often on the phone sharing heartaches and trials. It was always her songs that lifted both of us. There will NEVER be another to equal her ability and even more her anointing. She was a legend in our time and those who never took time to meet her missed the opportunity of a lifetime. My prayers are with Larry, Judy, their children, and Chris. Dottie was coming to the church that my father pastors at the end of June for a concert. She was so excited about the setting up the date in which we were to do this week. Well she is in a heavenly concert today. It was a day of Come Spring that Heaven Had Never Welcomed a Sweeter Mama now She is Beholding the Lamb. Dottie I will miss you and our times that we spent together and the many phone calls that we made to each other when we did not think we would make it through another valley or climb another mountain. Rest on pilgrim, your suffering and pain has ended. Wait for me by the gate and motion me in, for in the morning I will see you. I love you forever.
My little mommy simply loved to hear Dottie sing the song “He Looked Beyond My Faults And Saw My Need” whenever Dottie was on Christian television in the Los Angeles area. Now, you must understand that I mean my mom really L-O-V-E-D to hear Dottie sing that song! Well, just over a year ago at the tender age of 95 my mom went to her reward in heaven. As sure as I am sitting at my computer keyboard right now, when I heard the news about Dottie’s passing today, I swear I saw my mom look up when Dottie was arriving into heaven and my little mommy said with happy tears of joy clapping her hands softly, OHHHH look! Here comes Dottie Rambo!
To Reba and Donny, my heart is simply broken for you dear ones. Oh, you will probably act brave and joyful at your mom’s homegoing celebration on Monday, but you must be devastated and will surely miss her tremendously. May I thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing your mom so generously with us and with the whole wide world?
Dottie Musser
P.S. One time when my mom was hospitalized in ICU, she woke up after having been asleep for a few days. Guess who was singing a Christmas song on the TV? Uh huh! Dottie Rambo! Mom just smiled and smiled as she heard Dottie sing.
As we travel thru this life many people impact our lives some we never get to meet face to face but praise god that one day we as the SAVED children of god will be togeather for one eternal day. when I read about this accident that had claimed sister dottie oh how my heart melted. I am only 25 years old and didnt get the chance to meet alot of the true singers and song writers that were truly anointed by god and stood the test.I challenge every child of GOD to take the measure of faith shown by sister dottie and apply it to our lives as she did through the good times and bad times.
To all of us grieving the loss of our dear sister in the Lord, Dottie….I was just going to bed late on Sunday, well really Monday morning about 2:18, when and e-mail came into my e-mail box, and I just stared at it. The day before I had one of my Dottie Rambo newsletters in it, and I said to myself “no I don’t want to open up any more, she is not here anymore, she is dead”. Well I just pushed that to the side, that was Saturday……never knowing that God was talking about the very next day….Monday at around 2:18 am in the morning, tears ran down my face, now it was being confirmed what God had spoken in a word of knowledge the day before. I cried on and off for the next 3 hours….WORDS cannot express what most of us are feeling right now…We are selfish, we wanted her here longer with us, she was such a blessing to the world. God wanted his angel to come home. I see Tammy Faye,Vestal Goodman, Howard Goodman, and so many others were there at the gate to greet her. She walked right into the arms of Jesus, it was just wonderful, so when we think of the sadness of our precious Dottie not here anymore, we can take refuge, she is no longer in any pain, she is in the presence of our dear sweet Lord, she is happy, she is fulfilled, she is home! I have penned several songs, nothing that I have done anything with, but I feel so many songs swelling up in me since her passing, I know in the next few days I will write some through this pain of the world’s loss. I had not heard that one song title, I mean over 2,500, I knew I did not know all of them. Tuesday, today I learned one of her song titles, and smiled, for it had my name in it, and just made me cry, I never knew it…. TEARS WILL NEVER STAIN THE STREETS OF THAT CITY! Even in her passing such a gift, it blessed my soul, thank you God for blessing us with Dottie….May we all be more move to do more for JESUS with our time here on earth, since we never know when God will call us home! We all may feel peace and joy in one regard, while we grieve in our humanness, we rejoice in our spirit! God said “Well done thou good and faithful servant”. HOLY SPIRIT COMFORT REBA, DONNY, LARRY & HIS FAMILY, CHRIS, AND ALL THE Rambo ministry team, family and friends…I would love to attend the funeral, but have no way to get there, but I will be there in spirit…..WE WERE ALL LIFTED UP IN OUR SPIRITS BY THE OBEYING OF THIS GODLY WOMAN TO WRITE SONGS TO BLESS, HELP & ENCOURAGE ALL OF US, WHEN IN TIMES OF TRIAL, God used a little anointed woman named Dottie Rambo……Jesus 3:16 is the only way, and thankyou Dottie for helping so many of us through music, lyrics to soften the soul, to hear the TRUTH of his holy word, amen…..God bless you all here, hugs to all in the body of Christ……
Dottie would be very blessed to know we all went out and did more for JESUS, because her passing brought us more determination to give the love of JESUS away….we will see you at the gate!
I grew up listening and watching Dottie Rambo, with my Mom. As I got older I continued to watch her on different T.V. Programs. I just loved her so much. I love her songs. All of them, one being my fav. We Shall Behold Him. I loved them all tho. She always touched my heart so much and my life. I too have a bad spine condition and she was such a encourager to me. When I heard of her death, I just cried and cried. Yet, I know she is in glory with our Lord now. Which was her longing. I can just see her praising Jesus and that smile she always had that shined is shining even brighter now. There are things we just will never understand as to the “whys” but we need not to question and know that God is always in control. I want to say, the family and frineds have been and are in my prayers, and I know the Lord is wrapping His loving arms around you all. Dottie..you will surely be missed by me and many!!
I’m deeply saddened by the death of Dottie Rambo. I first became acquainted with Dottie in the early 60’s. My parents and big sister sang together in a trio and performed with the Gospel Echoes on one or two occasions. I was just a little girl but, how well I remember the impact Dottie had on me. I wanted to be just like her–she was stunningly beautiful. I wanted to sing like her (she had the voice of an angel), play the guitar like her, smile like her, wear my hair like her. I wanted to BE Dottie Rambo. I idolized her.
As I grew into a teenager, Dottie remained my favorite singer. My twin sister and I formed our own trio with our big sister during these years, and we sang so many Dottie Rambo songs. My favorite may well have been, “One More River.” I had the lead on that one and always hoped I sounded a little like Dottie. I didn’t, of course, but I hoped I did anyway.
As an adult, my admiration and respect for Dottie only grew. I became aware of some of the personal and physical struggles she endured, and her ability to keep going never ceased to amaze me. She never gave up. She never quit. And above all, she never neglected the gift that God had given her. Through every storm, she seemed to rise stronger each time. She was one amazing woman.
The songs Dottie penned are some of the greatest gospel songs ever written, period! What an incredible talent and gift she possessed. Her love for the Lord was obvious in all of her songs, her longing for heaven apparent. The world has lost an incredible lady. I mourn her death, but it’s comforting to know that she died doing what she loved to do.
May God bless and comfort those closest to her, and may God strengthen those who were injured during this tragic accident. My prayers are with you all.
yes i am saddened About Dottie Rambo she has been a wonderful Gospel Singer My Nephew had sung some of her songs before he passed away he played a piano at our church but i loved her music God Be with her family and her loved ones also with the ones on the bus with her Thank God for Dottie Rambo and now she is in Heaven
This World Is A Far Better Place Because Our Precious Dottie Rambo Graced It With Her Glory For Her 74 Years! I Have Been Praising God For Her Wonderful Life Since Hearing Of Her Passing By Listening Endlessly To Many Of Her Songs And Watching Her Videos On Youtube. There Is No Wreath Of Death Upon Her Mansion Door, Songs Of Joy Are All We’ll Sing! Endless Praises To Our Heavenly Father For Gifting Us With Her Life, And Prayers Of Comfort And Healing To Her Family And The Injured Loved Ones.
In Closing I Must Pay Tribute To Our Precious Angel By Mentioning My Favorite Dottie Rambo Song. I was Always Touched As We Sang The Hymn In My Church, “I Will Glory In The Cross”. LEST HIS SUFFERING ALL BE IN VANE/I WILL WEEP NO MORE, FOR THE CROSS THAT HE BORE/ BUT I WILL GLORY IN THE CROSS Haleluah! Thank You Dottie for Teaching Us To Glory In The Cross.
Iwalked into my office Monday morning and scanned the internet and was shocked to read that Dottie Rambo had been killed in an accident. It seemed strange that I felt like a family member had died, though I had never met Dottie. When i was a child of about six years old my Daddy use to pay me twenty five cents to sing Dottie’s song ” The Good Old Days” at the church he was pastoring. Even after my daddy past away my mother continued raising her children under God fearning preaching and Dottie Rambo’s singing. During my teenage years I’ve watched my mother walk the floors praying the lyrics of Dottie Rambo’s songs over her rebelious teenagers. And thanks to God, Mama and Dottie I am now 51 years old and have gone through some of those late night walks with my teenagers also. I am going to keep all my mothers old Dottie Rambo albums for my daughter and son to use during their late night walks with God and Dottie Rambo.
Terrible, terrible loos. I was wondering if the services will be televised on TBN or on YouTube or something like that. I’m in California. Would anybody know and if you mention it here? Thank you.
My parents & I had the honor and privilege of seeing Dottie the Saturday evening before the bus accident in Granite City IL. She was very overwhelmed by the presence of the Lord as she sang and spoke about seeing her Saviour face to face. We all loved her & I really wanted to somehow get to her to pray for her that night with the pain she was in from her broken leg, but didn’t get the opportunity. I battled the thought for a few days, “If there was something I could’ve done or said to keep her in Granite City”, but the Lord is in control of all things and He didn’t want her suffering anymore. She is healed & beholding the Saviour face to face! Our hearts grieve with you and our prayers are with the other families involved in the accident. May the Lord sustain you & give you peace in your hours of sorrow. God bless all!
I am saddened at the tragic passing of this icon of Gospel Music. I had the opportunity to be with Dottie at a songwriting seminar in the Tuscaloosa area a few years back, and felt I was in the presence of greatness. It was a very small group of aspiring songwriters with Dottie and Gerald Crabb. At one point, she asked if she could borrow my reading glasses to read a passage from a book or song lyric she was having trouble seeing. I know today, that Dottie is in the presence of greatness. My condolences to her family and close friends, and my prayers for a fast and complete recovery for those who were with her in the bus crash. God was ready for Dottie, and now she’s “teaching angels how to sing”.
P.S. Just one little funny note. The Saturday night that she was in Granite City IL, she closed out with an altar call. She said, “Now, I just don’t like it when people bow their heads & close their eyes when they pray” so everybody kept their eyes open. The funny thing was, when she started praying, I watched to see if she closed her eyes and, sure enough, she did! (& Also, now I know the story behind “Germs, My Invisible Dog”. I just had to buy that tape to remember a lot of the songs from that tape that we sang in children’s church back in the early 80’s.)
Dottie Rambo ministered in our church in November, 2007. I finally had the privilege of singing MID-NIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY and sharing with her a program that God gave me using that song as the theme. The program was totally awesome!
She was such a blessing to everyone. Words cannot express the sorrow everyone feels as her loss! I shall continue praying for Reba and her family and all of Dottie’s close friends!
There will NEVER be another Dottie Rambo!!
I never met this precious woman in person but I got to know her heart while watching her on the TBN network. God gave us such a gift for a little while and now she is seeing face to face what she only sang and wrote about while on earth. I can’t even imagine the joy she is experiencing at this moment. She left us a legacy not only in her music but in her daughter and family. May the Comforter be with them at this time as they go through the process of living on earth without her. Dottie overcame so much and I know that she will be rewarded for her good work. Reba, your pain will evolve into something bearable as time goes on. As I have purposed in my heart when my mother went home to be with the Lord, honor her by continuing to do what you are doing. Her voice will never be silenced. You are blessed that you can put on a CD and hear her voice again and again. Take comfort for she is in a place where she can sing to her Lord a new song that we will only be able to hear when we see her again.
I have always enjoyed Dottie’s song and music. Some years ago The Rambos made several trips into the Carolinas, and I tried to make everyone of them. She was a great singer and composer. Our loss is Heavens gain. She will be missed. Sincere Sympathy to the family.
Dottie sang many great songs that I remember hearing as I was growing up. I remember being in a kids productions of down by the creekbank and singing Germs my invisible dog that Dottie wrote. Her song In the Valley he restoreth my soul has helped me through some rough times, and always reminded me that even when I am in the valleys and it seems dark as a dungon that there is victory in trials for me. I have to say that it saddens me to think that she is no longer here with us on earth but it makes me happy to know that she is no longer in pain or suffering but she is rejoicing with Jesus, and she is being sheltered in the arms of God.
I have been a fan of the Rambos since the l960’s. I still have an album when they were “The Gospel Echoes” with Shirley singing instead of Reba. In the early 1970’s I had major surgery and my mom heard on the radio they were giving away a free Rambo poster with the purchase of their latest soundtrack. My mom is an extremely conservatively dressed “lady” to the fullest extent. She walked into Warehouse Records (which was a hip shop) and asked for the Rambo poster. Imagine her face when the guy handed her a poster with Sylvester Stallone as Rambo. I think your mom’s sense fo humor would have liked that. She has blessed so many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. She has attained her reward – we just have to be faithful to reach ours. God bless!
DOTTIE OF ALL THE GOSPEL SINGERS I NEVER HAD ANYONE TOUCH MY LIFE LIKE YOU DI. YOU ALWAYS HAD JUST WHAT I NEEDED TO HEAR IN YOUR SONGS. HEAVEN IS SO BLESSED TO HAVE YOU IN THEIR CHOIR. THE ANGELS ARE REJOICING I KNOW. I ALWAYS HAD TO HAVE A BEACH TOWEL WHEN I WOULD SIT DOWN TO LISTEN TO YOU SING. YOU WILL BE SO MISSED HERE BUT HEAVEN IS REJOICING AT YOUR COMING. I CANT NAME ONE SONG THAT WAS MY FAVORITE BECAUSE THEY TRULY ALL ARE. I COULD LISTEN TO YOU SING THE PRAISES OF GOD FOREVER. YOU WAS TRULY A FIRST LADY OF GOSPEL MUSIC. AND IT SHOWED ON YOUR FACE. I ONLY PRAY THAT PEOPLE CAN SEE GOD IN ME AS MUCH AS I COULD SEE HIM IN YOU. YOU ARE LOVED FOREVER. MAY YOUR MUSIC LIVE ON AS LONG AS THIS WORLD STANDS. DOTTIE MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
“SHELTERED IN THE ARMS OF GOD.”
GLENDA CALDWELL – MAY 14,2008
To the family and friends of Dottie … I met her many years ago at the church I attended in my home town. Her music touched me in ways that changed my life for the better. I am so sad to hear of the loss of such a wonderful lady. She will always be remembered with fondess, a woman with a heart for God. My prayers will be with you all during this time of healing and grief. I pray that God will give you strength in the days ahead.
I WANT TO SEND MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO ALL OF DOTTIES FAMILY. I HAVE NEVER KNOWN A SYMBOL OF OGDS HOLINESS, LIKE DOTTIE WAS AND IS TO ALL WHO KNEW AND LOVED HER. I AHVE LISTENED TO HER TRIBUTES FROM BARBARA MANDRELL TO THE TBN NETWORK. I CIRED THE WHOLE TIME WHEN BARBRA MANDRELL DID HER TRIBUTE, WITH LARRY GATLIN, AND MORE. I THANK GOD I TAPED IT. THE GAITHERS, ALSO WHEN THEY SING HER SONGS IT IS SO UPLIFTING, LIKE YOU CAN ALMOST TOUCH GOD WITH YOUR HANDS. I AM A FUNERAL ORGANIST HERE IN OHIO, AND I HAVE PLAYED MANY OF HER SONGS,, ESP ”’WE SHALL BEHOLD HIM”’ AND NO ONE SINGS IT LIKE MY ALL TIME FAVORITE, SANDI PATTI”’, WE LOVE YOU DOTTIE, YOU WILL BE MISSED, BUT YOUR WONDERFUL HEART OF SONGS, AND LOVE FOR THE LORD, WILL CARRY ALL OF US THROUGH, UNTIL WE ALL MEET AGAIN,.;;;TAKE UP YOUR CORSS AND FOLLOW ME;;;;;;AMEN
We Love you Dottie and always will !
My very first memories of music is hearing Dottie in person singing with her family in the 1960’s .My very first song that I ever sang in church was”Build My Mansion Nextdoor To Jesus”. I was probably 7 years old,But that song was so strong it ministered to my heart.Through out my life I am now 46,I have found comfort in Dottie Rambo’s music–“Sheltered in the Arms of God”,If That Isn’t Love and For What Earthly Reason just to name a few. I admired her simplicity and realness in her songwriting,to me it cant be matched by any other..Dottie Rambo you inspired and encouraged me with your soul and music.Now she truly is forever Sheltered in the Arms of God..Thank you for a lifetime of true Christian spirit and ministry.I love you Dottie Rambo!
Reba, Israel, Destiny, To all of Dottie’s fans, and the gospel music industry, ministries that Dottie was affiliated with, and to her staff ( Larry, Chris)… my sympathy goes out to all. Dottie was a personal friend to me and a mentor. I was deeply sadden when I heard the news of Dotties passing… God has another angel singing in His choir and Dottie is teaching the other angels how to sing as she is in the shelter in the arms of God.
We will all miss her deeply.
In the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit was ask for comfort to during this time. Amen.
In Christ, Glenn
Tampa, FL
Dottie Rambo has been a blessing to me and my whole family.I have never known anyone like her before or may never again.She allowed the Lord to flow through her and use her in a mighty way.You could feel the annointing on her voice as she spoke and when she sang it was like an angel singing.It was such a big shock to me i can only imagine how you family must be feeling.I lost my mom suddenly in 1992 and she loved Dottie just as much as i did. I know they are rejoicing in heaven.You have that same quality in you Reba and i know your mother was very proud of you,My heartfelt sympathies are with all of your family .Your mom was a gift God gave us to help us survive our storms .I love you, Becky Barton
What a blessing Dottie Rambo has been and will continue to be. Her songs will live on. She suffered so much pain several years ago. Now she is free of pain and walking and praising the Lord..
Another warrior has gone home. I am 47 years old and NEVER remember not knowing Dottie’s songs. Heaven’s gain is truly earth’s loss. I know they are having “Party Time” as Jeff Easter says, now that Dottie is reunited with her singing buddies.
I pray for her extended family for complete healing. If Dottie could say one more thing to us, I think she would say, “You never know the time you will be called SO JUST BE READY!”
She is forever “Sheltered in the Arms of God” (her beloved). She has no more heartache or pain. I know she and my mama are having a GREAT time. WE LOVE YOU DOTTIE!
Paula Tennison-May 16,2008- Ms.Dottie I will miss you! My Mother Darlene ODLE, knew Dottie when they were young girls living in Illinois. When Dottie had been KICKED out of her home,as Beckie Simmions put it,my Mother ask my grand-parents if Dottie could stay with them, and so she did. My Pap-pa, Wesley P. Odle was a U.P.C. Preacher and my Mother & Dottie became close friends.Infact they spent a period of time Preaching & Singing together over So.Illinois. Dottie was younger than my Mother so, she ended up becoming my Uncle’s 1st girlfriend. I was raised listening to Dottie Rambo songs every day of my life. I can sing almost every song by heart. I met her several different times wnen they started traveling and singing. And, for a long-long time Mother & Ms. Dottie would write & keep in touch. Ms.Dottie to me was more than just a great singer she was like a distant realitive. My Mother has been in Heaven now for some time, but my brother & I will treasure the pictures we have of Mother and Ms. Dottie when they were young. I had been on (MySpace) talking to Ms.Dottie, actually through Mr. Larry I guess. I even sent her a few pics on there of her and Momma, Mr.Larry had ask me if I could e-mail the pics, because Ms.Dottie wanted to see them better, but I had got really sick & sorry to say never got around to it, I regret that now. I learned at a early age to LOVE a Lady named “Dottie Rambo” I will miss her ! When I heard she had pased away it was like another part of my Mother was gone. Momma loved her SO much ! So, I could not help but LOVE her. Who knows maybe they are together now hugging each other once AGAIN. Mr. Larry, I pray you get better soon ok, and thank you. Reba, I pray God will give you peace and comfort you.
Oh how I loved Dottie’s songs. My precious mother, who went home in 2005, loved her so much. My bishop, Franklin Jones, went home to Jesus last year. He loved her songs also. I imagine what a reunion all are having as this great woman of God entered in. What a singing must be going on right now. As most everyone that knew of the Rambos, Dottie’s songs have been a part of my growing up and, my gospel music career. I pray that I can be one of those to carry on the torch for the ones that have paved the way. Dottie will be so missed. I feel an emptiness in my heart. God bless the family and friends.
As we were leaving the Easter Sunday service this year, I commented, “If the only reason God made Dottie Rambo was to have the gift of the song, “Behold The Lamb” that would have been enough! But the reality is her gifts to us are countless. What a treasure she was here on earth and how precious she will be for all eternity. I know I want to have a cup of tea with her many times, when time is no more.
Our prayers are with the family and friends as well as those injured.
i DO NOT BELEIVE THAT I HAVE EVER HEARD A MORE TALENTED , GOD FEARING , HOLY GHOST ANOINTED VOICE THAN THAT OF OUR DEPARTED SIS DOTTIE RAMBO… BUT LIKE OTHERS HAVE SAID, SHE IS AT HOME NOW.. THE HOME THAT SHE SO BEAUTIFULLY SANG ABOUT IN “HOW BEAUTIFUL HEAVEN MUST BE”… THAT SONG HAS ALWAYS BLESSED ME, AND I WILL NEVER FORGET OUR BELOVED SISTER IN CHRIST… I BELEIVE THE ENTIRE CHRISTIAN WORLD WILL MISS HER BEING WITH US, BUT WE KNOW SHE IS IN A BETTER PLACE NOW, AND WE SHOULD BE REJOICING…..I THANK GOD FOR MY SIS IN CHRIST, HAVING MADE SUCH A PROFOUND IMPACT ON MY LIFE…. IT IS BECAUSE OF WHAT SHE SAID TO ME AT A CONCERT ONE EVENING , IN CLEARWATER FLA. THAT I CAN SAY I AM A CHRISTIAN…
I WAS BACKSLIDDEN AND ON DRUGS, AND SHE ASKED ME TO GIVE IT TO HIM, AND I DID…. I WAS DELIVERED , SET FREE , AND FILLED WITH THE HOLYGHOST THAT NIGHT, AND TO THIS DAY , I AM STILL SERVING GOD FAITHFULLY….
Right after I was first saved I sang songs welcoming the Holy Spirit, too much to gain to loose, building my mansion next door to Jesus,
if that isn’t love, we shall behold Him, He looked beyond my faults, and glorying in the cross —- not realizing the same person wrote all of them. Dotties’ music helped me to grow strong, and faithfully spoke to me about how wonderful Jesus is, and not to look back at sin. I may never have met her face to face in this life, but I love her, Reba and Dony greatly. My prayers are with her entire family. May none of us forget how she has witnessed and testified in God’s precious, holy name.
I WILL ALWAYS CHERISH THE MINISTRY OF DOTTIE RAMBO. I SAW HER AND BUCK AND SHIRLEY MY FIRST TIME AROUND 1964 IN KINGSPORT, TN. I SAW HER ON TV MANY TIMES AND JUST A FEW YEARS AGO, I WENT TO SARASOTO AND SAW HER AGAIN.
HER SONGS ARE GREAT TREASURES. I JUST BOUGHT HER LATEST CD AND “DRIVING MISS DOTTIE” WHEN SHE WAS ON THE JIM BAKKER SHOW.
HER SONG TITLES ARE SERMONS WITHIN THEMSELVES. WHAT A BEAUTIFUL LADY.
SPECIAL THANKS TO LARRY FOR HOW SWEET HE WAS TO DOTTI. ALSO LARRY’S WIFE. THEY BOTH SEEM TO REALLY LOVE HER.
To Reba, Dony and their entire family:
We so loved Dottie’s gift of song. It affected our lives in such a positive way, as it also blessed our lives to be a blessing to others. Each song was written in what we would call a most prophetic way, based on Dottie’s life and homegoing.
Meeting Dottie Rambo and group in the late 50’s, where they were singing in Rolla, MO., was as we see it now , a rare treat. My parents were also on the same program and got to minister with the group. Some 25 years later, we met up again, and It was a priviledge to spend personal time with Dottie here in Dallas, TX.
Reba and Dony and family, we are truly sorry for your loss. May the Lord strengthen all of you, as you read and experience the huge outpouring of love we all felt for your mother, Dottie Rambo. She was and still is, an incredible gift to the body of Christ at large.
This tiny little lady was BIG in Jesus!!! I have cherished her music for years, and I can remember taking my little girl to see her when Jana was about 5 or 6. She couldn’t even see through the crowd that swarmed Dottie after the service….but Dottie saw her! She parted the crowd just like the Lord parted the sea and asked the folks to “step aside and let this little girl come through to see me.” She is a grown wife and mother now and has never forgotten how important Dottie made her feel that day! Her songs and her memory will be cherished for many generations to come, and my love and prayers go out to her family now….Reba and Donny, Destiny and Israel, and all the other family and friends and fans and followers who were so profoundly blessed by her! Our loss is surely Heaven’s gain, and I know her songs are resounding throughout Heaven today in all their glory! Till we meet again, Dottie….thank you for so richly blessing our lives!
Down By the Creek Bank (anniversary edition) is being performed by a multi-ethnic children’s music/drama group called Power and Light Company this Sunday, May 18th at the Cooper City Church of God in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Group includes sixty children, from 1st grade to 12 years old. Many of the parents in the audience performed same musical as children. Director Gail Crick, who directed the musical years ago and has done so several times during the years, will dedicate it to the anointed composer and prolific songwriter this weekend.
I loved to hear Dottie tell the story of how she wrote her first song at age 8! Her music is always a blessing, and Christendom has lost a great mother and mentor. Once as I watched her on TV, she was telling of great hardships the Lord had faithfully brought her through, & she said, “I love to brag on Jesus!” Never in my life have I heard anyone else say that, ever. What a beautiful legacy, to have spent her life singing of the faithfulness of God — bragging on Jesus! We are truly blessed to have had her on the earth during our lifetime.
What a precious life and lady! What a prolific and prophetic psalmist and singer! It gives me the shivers to think that I am in the process of releasing a CD with one of Dottie’s Songs on the album..it will be now dedicated to her memory. The lyrics of that song she wrote will follow on this comment.
I trust and pray that all of us with the Rambo- Mc Guire family will join in prayer as she is released from this world and present with the Lord.
I’VE NEVER BEEN THIS HOMESICK BEFORE
Writer Dottie Rambo
There’s a light in the window
And the table’s set in splendor
Someone’s standing by the open door (open door)
I can see a crystal river
Oh I must be near forever
And I’ve never been this homesick before
Chorus:
See the bright light shine
It’s just about hometime
I can see my Father standing at the door
This world has been a wilderness
I’m headed for deliverance
Lord, I’ve never been this homesick before
I can see the family gather
Sweet faces, there all familiar
But no one’s old or feeble anymore (never grow old)
Oh this lonesome heart is cryin’
Think I’ll spread my wings for flyin’
Lord, I’ve never felt this homesick before
Repeat Chorus (x2)
Lord, I’ve never been this homesick before
God Speed Dottie…you were be forever in our hearts and our thoughts!!
Your family will continue the legacy, and it will be thru them that we will see glimpses of you come thru! You are now singing with the heavenly choirs …leading with them in Praise to the most high!
I was very stunned and sad to hear about the passing of Dottie Rambo. Since I was a very young child, I have loved her music and her singing. As an adult, her music has inspired me to continue in the calling that God has placed me. From the musical “Germs” to just about everything that she sang and wrote, I have been blessed. I believe that history will record her as the best gospel song writer ever.
Truly, the world has lost a great and creative person who gave all of the glory to God. I know that my Mother and other saints are helping her rejoice with the creator of the universe in heaven today.
I knew Dotty on TBN. My best wishes and prayers go to her family. She will be always remembered.
I was shocked to learn on May 13th that Dottie Rambo had died on May 11th in a bus crash. I have loved and played Miss Dottie’s music since I discovered her when I was 30 years old. My favorite two songs are, “Sheltered In The Arms Of God”, and “The Holy Hills Of
Heaven Call Me”. I had made plans later this year to try just once to see her in concert somewhere in Texas and was closely watching the schedule but now I will never get to see or hear her on this earth. I will miss you Miss Dottie and send prayers with love to her family. Ms. Dottie was my 2nd favorite hymn writer with Fanny Crosby being my first choice. I’m sure Ms. Dottie is in heaven talking with Miss Fanny. Love to all Miss Dottie’s family, manager, bus driver, their families and all close friends.
In Christ Love,
Marie
To Dottie Rambo…
Her Angel room is empty now
Void of her loving presence
The anointed pen is silent
Having written the final note
And penned the final words
Of worship, of praise to the LORD
Whom she loved with all her heart and soul.
The One Who filled her very being
With His words of love and power
Bringing worship and praise to the lips
Of those who listened to those words
With their Spirit filled hearts.
I will surely miss the beautiful lady with whom God has blessed my heart.
Her anointed songs will continue to carry her love for the Lord Jesus
to my heart as long as God gives me breath. And, after all, is this not
the reason she was???
All too often when I write I’ve used a line from a Dottie Rambo song, or used something she has said to make a point in a sermon. However, right now, my heart is broken from the loss of this great warrior in the kingdom. There are too many of words that won’t come to the surface. The only thing I can think of is what she is possibly seeing at this very moment. Maybe she’s with Vestal Goodman shouting down the streets of heaven with no walkers or canes holding them up. Or screaming with Tammy Faye who once used as a credo, “you can make it”, but now is saying “we made it”. She’s standing tall now – all 5 foot 3 inches of her, with her hands in the air joining with the elders around the throne singing “Behold The Lamb” while Jesus wipes the tears from her eyes for the last time. Or maybe she’s had every trial, heart break, betrayal, and hurt finally answered. She’s no longer singing “We shall behold Him then face to face” but she now sings “I now behold Him right here in this place”. Whatever she is now experiencing it certainly makes her journey here on this earth pale in comparison. The entire ministry is now realized, but it leaves us with a vacuum.
There has never been a time Dottie Rambo’s music has not been the background music to the soundtrack of my life. When my family traveled we were listening to Rambos 8-tracks, or cleaned the house while listening to a Dottie Rambo record, or had church along with one of her cassettes. Many times my friends have rolled their eyes as I have rattled on about Dottie’s ministry and dug through my collections of over 100 records, tapes, CD’s, and videos. I don’t suppose that will stop, but now my heart will be heavy when I speak of this Psalmist. Along with the heaviness I will remember the story of when she laid hands on a pregnant Pat Manning and prophesied over her unborn child, that I will reach people that she will never be able to reach. Or the big lipstick print left on my 15 year old little cheek when she thanked me for being her number one fan. Or her and I both crying as she signed a picture my mother purchased 30 years earlier that she didn’t have a chance to sign, because she was giving an altar call at the time. Or the thank you phone call that I received in 1998 for never giving up on her.
Her celebrity made me proud that she was reaching the world, but her perseverance inspired and gave me the courage to finally step into the calling of a minister. Her songs pulled me through when I thought God hated me. They gave me strength through the years of drug addiction. And as I sang her song, “Remind Me Dear Lord” deep wounds between my parents and I were healed when they came to visit my church for the first time.
Thank you Sister Rambo for never giving up, for walking through the valleys, for climbing the mountains, and for walking through the storms of your life even when you didn’t want to. When I get there I’m holding you to your promise that we’ll sit by the river of life and dip our feet while you tell me what was going on when God gave you all 2,500 songs.
A great Lady & Angel has passed over into the Glory Land and
is singing with all the Angels, and Beholding Him face to face.
She really touched my life, and I thank God for her life & music
that God Blessed her with.
I pray that her family be covered in prayer & Love by all!
My Uncle Ronald Garrison was a song writer and has went on to be with the Lord also.
Beautiful Dottie Rambo!
Thank you for sharing the gift you were given with all of us. You will live on through every song penned by your talented hand. Night Night little Angel.
When I came to God in 1977 I learned how to pray with Dottie’s songs playing in the background on a little portable cassette player. I’ll never forget those hours spent at His feet getting to know Him. It was Dottie’s beautiful songs that inspired me to start writing my own songs. She truly was a pioneer and her music has touched multitudes.
I can’t say enough about how much this Wonderful Lady impacted my Family’s life, her songs have been heard in our home for 4 generations, My daughter and I, and also my grandaughter have sung her songs for many years, there were so many times that her songs would get me through a difficult time in my life. Now that she is Home she is just begining to realize the souls she has reached for the Kingdom of God! What a Great Homecoming for Dottie! We love you,Reba, Buck , and all the Family ,and our Prayer’s are with you through this time. God Bless all of you.
I love Dottie Rambo and I miss her deeply. The suddenness of this tragic event and the resulting shock is overwhelming. Even in this sadness somehow God will be glorified and many will be drawn to Him. In life and in death Dottie draws us closer to our Father. Her anointed music has touched my heart more times than I can describe. My heart goes out to her family and to her ministry team as they cope day by day during this challenging time.
Being an International Gay Recording artist, Dottie was a personal friend of mine and James Blackwood over the yeara and Tammy Faye. I was honored to know her and will miss her greatly. I love you DOttie and will see you in Heaven.
Love Blayne Bell
myspace.com/blaynebell
Since I was a little boy, singing at reunions and churches, I have known Dottie Rambo’s music. When I was only four or five, my mother taught me the words to one of Dottie’s songs, Build My Mansion, so I knew Dottie’s words as some of my very first. They were my first brushes with poetry. Through the years her songs have become a part of my eternal memory. A song I have sung for many years–my late mother’s favorite, in fact–is “Remind Me, Dear Lord.” In taking Dottie from us, God did indeed remind us of the beautiful majesty of her music. How can we ever forget when her music sings in our bones?
I Remember Sister Dottie when I was 8 yrs old.I used to see her on TV with her husband and daughter.I just loved to hear Then singing.Then when I got saved when I was 10 yrs old.We lived across the street there was a little white church.it was Church of God.I remember when I was a Little Boy I didn’t have any shoes to wear to church.my pants had holes in the knees.But I went to church there.I praise God for Sister Dottie.When I hear her singing I just feels the presence of the lord so strong around me.When I grew up The Lord Gave me the gift Playing the guitar and Paino.Now I sing all her songs around the world.When I hear that my presnts Sister Dottie passed away I was so numbed.I saw sang one of her favorite song last night.Shelter In The Arms O God.I felt her present around me.I will see Her in Heaven.So Little sister you up there with the Lord.so tell Jesus I see Him and My Mama and Daddy.I always Love you sis.I just Loved to hear and her daughter sings.I Have some of Records And Cd’sI will cherished them until the Lord Call Me Home.
I believe the first Dottie Rambo song I heard was “One More Valley”, when my sister’s friend used to sing it. As I learned more about the Rambos and their music, she eventually became my favorite songwriter. No other music has touched my heart and life the way hers has; I doubt that any other ever will. Singing her songs has always been a blessing for me. While I could never hope to put as much heart and soul into them as the Rambos did – especially Dottie – nevertheless I felt each word as I sang those songs. One of the greatest thrills of my life was being able to meet Dottie in person in Indianapolis – not once, but twice. I can still remember what I said to her: “There is nothing I can say that hasn’t been said to you a thousand times, but I hope you know how much your music and your ministry has meant to millions.” She was so gracious, so sweet. She smiled and said “Honey, I want you to give the credit to Jesus.” I was heartbroken to hear of her passing, but then when I learned the circumstances of the accident, something came to mind. The words “I’ll fall asleep, and wake in God’s new heaven.” That’s exactly what she did. I’ll miss you Dottie. To Larry, Chris, and Ronnie: I can’t imagine the pain you’re feeling – but know that thousands are praying for you and our hearts are with you.
May 18,2008
The news of Dottie’s death shocked me today. She was a very inspirational lady with an anoited testimony of faith and love of Jesus Christ. I know that Dottie went through some trials and tribulations during her life.
A few years ago, I was going through my own trials and tribulations. Everything that could go wrong; went wrong. I was about to succumb to the devil’s defeat with suicide. There is a song that Dottie wrote and sang that gave me hope and strength to face those trials and tribulations. That song is UNSEEN HAND. I know that God put those words in Dottie’s mind and heart to minister to me and others in times of need, and I believe that she is truly teaching angels how to sing. I wished that I could be there to express may condolences face to face, but I know that isn’t possible. So I will offer this prayer as my contribution to the family and friends
Prayer:
LORD,
I bow before the presence of your HOLY SPIRIT today in request that YOU give comfort, peace, and healing for the friends and family of Dottie. For those who were with Dottie during this tragic accident, may the HOLY SPIRIT fill your bodies and anoit you with healing for all your needs.
In JESUS CHRIST’S name I ask. Amen.
Our sympathy goes out to Dottie and her family, friends.
The first time I saw her on stage was when I was a young teenager. She, Doc, and her daughter sang at the Tennessee Eastman Entertainment Center sometime about the mid “60s. She and the team grew a crowd then too.
We will miss her terriblly.
I am so sad that I never had the opportunity to see Dottie in concert but her music and her testimony have ministered to me for years and will continue to do so. Her music will live on forever. I pray that her family will have the Lord’s peace in this difficult time. God bless you all.
why do the greatest of all leave too soon
Dottie Rambo will forever be the greatest female songwriter that Pentecost has and will ever produce. As long as man will live on this planet, her songs will be changing people’s lives, and making this world a better place.
I was so sad to hear the news that Dottie had passed away. I have every one of Her CD’s and videos and she has brought so much joy to my life through Her singing. The bible clearly states: “When Your Work On Earth Is Over, You Will Be Called Home”. It was Dottie’s time to go home and meet Her Saviour. She is now walking on streets of gold, singing in the biggest choir that you or I have ever heard and has a Mansion Just Over The Hilltop.
My condolences are extended to Her entire family circle and I know our Loving Heavenly Father will sustain you at this very difficult time.
One of my favorite songs that Dottie sang was “Just Build My Mansion Next Door To Jesus And Tell The Angels I’m Coming Home”. Dottie is now singing with the angels and Her Heavenly Father forever.
We will ALWAYS miss you Dottie and you will NEVER be forgotten.
Heather Langevin (Ontario,Canada)
I am so sadden by the loss of such a great lady. I love her daughter Reba, she prayed for me in Sera Vista, Arizona and I was blessed. Please give them my love. Dony keep on if only for me. Love you much my special friends.
May the Lord continue to bless Dony and Reba as they continue in the work of the Lord.
Pastor Mary Miller, Tucson, Arizona
I’m so happy for Dottie that she is now with our LORD JESUS CHRIST, although I’m saddened, in the way that she went to be with the LORD. People like Dottie are truly a blessing from GOD and she will be truly missed. Sometimes when people go home, it still blows my mind to think that they are standing face to face with JESUS in all his glory . Dottie GOD danced the day you were born and the day you came to join him. I’m sure when you first saw him when you went home, that he had his arms wide open ready to welcome you and embrace you with loving arms, and him telling you well done and I’ve been waiting along time to see you. Dottie God Loves you and so does everyone you have ever reached with you GOD given gift of music. IN CHRISTS LOVE
Can anyone imagine the inspiring songs that Dottie is writing now? Dottie has contributed a lasting legacy in her time here, and helped sustain our hope with those incredibly stirring lyrics and her living testimony. Now, all her tears are wiped away…all her back pain taken away….and she sees Jesus as He is!!! Dottie, ‘We Shall Behold Him’, too, and look forward to the wonderful reunion we all will have before our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Come quickly, Jesus.
Dottie was an inspiration.Not a Sunday went by without me hearing her wonderful voice.The news came as a sudden shock to me and i couldnt help my tears from falling.
I could not find the privilege to meet her personally here but what i do know is that i will meet her finally in the presence of the Lord…and i know that day is coming soon for the holy hills of heaven are calling me..
Dear Dony and Reba,
Greetings from our Family here in Independence, Mo. We will Ms.Dottie Singing It always has uplifted us when have been down in our life. I enjoy sing her songs. Our Family favorite song is ” HE LOOKED BEYOND OUR FAULTS AND SAW MY NEED.” We will miss her sining these song. We love the day we will meet in heaven.
GOD BLESS
THE STAFF OF FOUNTAINOF HEALING EVANGELSTIC TEAM
REV.PAUL CUNNINGHAM AND REV.CHARLOTTE AND CHARLES BOYD
To Reba & Donny & the Grandkids of Dottie & to her sisters & others relatives & freinds & her manager Larry & his family: I was so sad to hear the news of Dotties passing. Her ministry was stronger then ever. She was reaching thousands & probably more then ever. I had just watched her on the Jim & Lori Bakker show on the net from the new Morningside in Branson. My family loved watching her on TBN & other shows. She was a sweetheart, a colorful & beautiful lady inside & out & very wise in the Lord too. I guess we are all blessed that we had extra time with Dottie as there were many times she could have left this world before but did not. I know she was a faithful friend to so many from Lulu to Tammy Faye BakkerMessner. Now they are all together with the Happy Goodmans & they are all singing with Elvis too. WOW-what a concert. The old world just got a little darker & sadder but Heaven just got a lot prettier & sweeter sounding. My prayers go out to her family & friends & her little dog & to her managers family & the others on the bus. The other day I was traveling home listening to a Rambo Family tape & in the middle the tape switched & the volume shot up & it was Dottie singing about her mansion in Heaven. It shocked me. Nothing like that has ever happened before. The volume really shot up. It was so encouraging. I hope it encourages all of as well. Until we all meet in Heaven someday,may God bless you all with HIS PEACE & many special memories. The tears Dottie shed on earth are saved up in a bottle & Jesus still has prayers of hers to answer for all of you. Happy Trails & God Bless & Keep Trusting Jesus. Love & Prayrers, Gary W. Holmes, II 14 White Pine Circle-Arundel, Elkton, MD 21921
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of our beloved Ms. Dottie Rambo. Though I did not know it at the time, I grew up listening to her music, as it was sung in church. I love “One more Valley”, and “Never been this Homesick before”. Though we have lost such an influential Woman of God, Heavens choir has a sweet new voice to Honor and Praise The Lord. Dottie truly had an annointing on her life to be able to write the songs that touch you deep within your soul. Certainly, Jesus Himself lifted her into His arms and welcomed her into that Holy City. While we greive, we must also remember that Dottie is home, shouting on the streets of Heaven and resting at The Masters Feet. To the Family of Dottie Rambo, I pray God will hold you close and comfort you like only He can, and give you strength to face the days ahead. God Bless and Ever be with you.
In Love and Faith, and Eternal Hope,
Lisa Fitch, 735 W. Marion St. Shelby NC 28150
Reba and Family, you are in my prayers at this most difficult time.
I am sadden for your grieve.
I meet you, your dad and Dottie in 1956, when I was 9 years old. Then you mother not only sang but she preached. You all used to come to a little church in Clarksville, IN and the pastor was Rev. Woodrow Archer. Our loss is Heavens gain.
In Love and Prayers
To the Rambo Family :
I know exactly what you all are going through; but at this time just remember that God picks his best Roses. He needed another beautiful angel in Heaven. I lost my Mother, baby brother & younger sister all at one time when I was 8 1/2 months pegnant with my first child at the age of 21 in 1972. With God’s help he got me to where I am now. She is up there rejoycing with my Mother and family right now as I speak. God Bless & Keep You All . Love & Prayers go out to all the other families that were also injured. Jesus is coming soon.
lilangel711
What a woman of God Dottie Rambo was. I have been blessed with her music all my life, as countless others have. I had the privilege of hearing the Rambos in concert years ago and have many of their albums. I learned to sing harmony by listening to them. I remember in high school, sitting in class singing the songs silently as the teacher taught. I’d go home for lunch and listen to the albums almost every day. I enjoy singing many of her songs. My Filipino friend and I like to sing ‘I’ve Never Been This Homesick Before’ together.
I was saddened to hear that Dottie had passed away, but I rejoiced knowing that she is with her Lord and Savior, whom she loved and served.
I pray for Reba and her family, as well as all Dottie’s extended family and many friends. May God comfort you and give you peace in the coming days, weeks, and months, as you heal and recover from this trajic loss. I know the vacancy is great for you, but Dottie lives on in your hearts through all your experiences and the love she had for each one. The Lord was just ready for her to come home. I’m sure she was ready to go, too. God bless and keep you all in His tender care.
Love and blessings,
Elaine Clemmons
Saratoga, North Carolina
Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Dottie in person, I saw her sever times on tv, and heard her and the radio. One just knew that Dottie was Dottie. What you saw was what you got. Always the same. Even with life’s struggles she was always smiling. Her humor was untouched, which is the best medicine. Nothing no one can say can ease the families pain. I work for a funeral home here in Ga. I hear people telling families “You know they are better off”, Yes, if they were a cild of God, but that still does not help the pain at that time. You know where Dottie is. She is Home, Happy, no pain, singing for her Lord. God knows our pain. When His Son died he proved that. On Vestal and Howard’s dvd ” The Final Stand”‘ Vesatl and Dottie sung The Holy Hills, She has joined Vestal and so many others. She fought a good fight and kept her Faith. I know God said to her, We’ll Done Thou Good and Faithful Servant, Great is your reward, Welcome Home. Rambo family you have been and will continue to be in my prayers. I know it hurts, may God give each of you strength, and comfort in the days ahead. Love and prayers, Brad
My most profound condolences goes out to Reba and the entire family that Sister Rambo had left behind. I can only imagine how much the angels sang the day Dottie’s spirit was escorted in to the presence of her maker! As a young person who loves gospel music, it was the inspiration that i got from Dottie wacthing her on TBN that drew me closer to Christ. She will be missed not only as a sister in Christ but as a woman of God who ministered to persons with the power of her country music. The lyrics of we shall behold him play in my mind as i remember her singing that song that drew me to embrace country music and made me realise that God makes us great in him when we avail our selves, and that Dottie did. God bless the hearts of her families and loved ones and may the hope that you will meet again be the force that drives you on to better things in life. Remember, Dottie is in a better place , writing the lyrics that formed these thought provoking and self convicting songs she brought into the world of country music. God bless you all.
Love
Janice heather Hector
Castries
Saint Lucia
West Indies.
I was shocked to hear about Dottie Rambo. I’ve loved her music ever since I first heard about her many years ago. I never did get to meet her but someday I will. Heaven will certainly be sweeter now for she is there and will never have to hurt anymore. She was such an inspiration to my family along with millions of others. Our prayers will be for the ones who suffered in the crash and her daughter and family. She will greatly missed!
to dottie you were truly one a kind lady
your music blessed and added alot of hope to so many
i loved your songs and i feel like i have known you all my life.
to your family and childern i hope that you fine peace and comfort
in knowing that your love one and mother is resting now in the arms of jesus. the one that she has sung about all of her life.
love
rita
Please be in prayer for Chris and his family. His mother in Tennessee is presently very ill. She may not be able to travel to Missouri to be with him. Again, please remember the Barnes family in your thoughts and prayers.
I watched a televised interview with Dottie just a few weeks ago. She told of her salvation, her career, her family, and most importantly, her LORD.
Surely the Angels in heaven are rejoicing at her homecoming!
Thank you Dottie for giving us a glimps into your new home…
We love you and miss you, my sister.
Father,
I pray for the Rambo family and all the families involved in this tragedy. Touch those in the hospital and heal them according to your word.
And comfort all those who grieve and morn the passing of Dottie, Lord. You are our Comfortor and our Friend – You are our very present help in this time of need. We love you Lord for all that you have done in and through Dottie Rambo. And we praise you for all you are going to do in and through us.
Again, Lord, bless this sweet family.
In Jesus name we pray believing…Amen
I had not heard until this weekend about the passing of our beloved Dottie. I have been looking at the websites about her and listening to the tribute on Trinity this afternoon. Her songs have had a great effect on me. I remember seeing her with Buck and Reba in the early 70’s in Williamston, NC, at a high school auditorium. What a sound! I still get out my LP’s and listen to them. Her songs are so beautiful and have so much meaning and have touched so many people. God used her in a great way in her time here with us. She will truly be missed.
you had good music and sorry for the lost
I was first introduced to the Rambos’ music in 1969, when I was 15 years old. My pastor’s son played me this “cool new song” called “I’ve Seen All Of This World (I Want To See).” Dottie sang her verse “soul style,” as only she could do. Reba’s verse was “folk” style, and Buck did his verse in his favored country style. I was enthralled, and immediately became an avid Rambo fan. Since that time, I have collected everything the Rambos have done, either collectively or individually, and my collection of the old LP’s is invaluable to me.
I had the privilege of seeing the Rambos in concert several times in the early ’70’s, and even met them on one or two occasions. But the highlight of my life (literally) was in November of 1983, when Dottie & Buck came to minister at my church in Galveston, TX. Knowing how I felt about Dottie, my pastor elected to have me pick up Dottie and Buck at the airport in Houston and take them to their hotel room in Galveston. I even “drove Ms. Dottie” for about an hour, while she slept in the back of the van, exhausted from the plane ride and in pain from an ear infection. And, though few words were shared between us due to her fatigue, it was my express privilege just to be in the presence of this woman of God.
The next day, during the Sunday evening service, Dottie suddenly stopped between songs, looked me in the eye and spoke very prophetically into my life concerning personal issues that neither she nor anyone else in the congregation could have known about. She then dedicated a song to me: “The Mercy Throne,” which, at that time, was my favorite song from her most recent solo album. She also had no way of knowing that. At that point, I realized what I should have known from years of listening to her songs: Dottie truly was a lady with whom God shared intimately from the depths of His heart.
I must admit that this past week has been a nightmare for me. I weep, but my tears are only for those of us who are left behind to carry on without Dottie. Truly, earth’s loss is heaven’s gain. And, I believe that very soon we’ll meet again. And, Dottie will sing us new songs that she’s written since her departure from this life. Oh, how I long for that day!
To the family: I know it must be difficult to endure such an ordeal with the eyes of the public on you. We just loved your Mother so much. Thank you for sharing her with us. And, thank you for sharing your own lives, songs, and ministry with us. God bless you. You are continually in my thoughts and prayers.
I had been unaware of Dottie’s passing until channel surfing came upon her homegoing celebration on local DayStar channel/It took a while for it all to register/Our Beloved Dottie had passed/I was never priveledged to meet her but her songs were a familiar part of my childhood life, and still are today/I too write from time to time,and so I felt as if I had lost a true friend, though we had never met there seemed to be a connection with this wonderful Woman of God, her songs so anointed, her spirit so uplifting!!!/What a wonderful treasure she was to us/How wonderful yet to know that she herself NOW is experiencing the wonder of being Sheltered in the arms of God!!/My thoughts, and prayers go to her beloved family, and also to those involved in the accident.
I just wanted to share a quick story about my experience with Dottie. I have loved her since I was a small child. I haved listened to her music all my life. I had the great fortune of meeting her several years ago at a concert in Indiana. She was so gracious and just potrayed Jesus to each one of us there. after the show I got a chance to speak with her and I told about when I was a child my favorite Rambo song was “IF THAT ISN’T LOVE” the only thing was that I thought she said ‘IF DADDY’S NOT LOVED”. I have since grown and become a gospel singer/songwriter myself. I shared this with her and she laughed with me and said I’m going to tell that to everyone. I will miss her so much, she was more than a singer/songwriter she was for so many of us a window into Heaven. I know that she is there now cheering us all on. God Blessed us all and we have to continue her legacy for future generations.
I was so saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Dottie…I listen to her music everyday,,,,she was a great lady….a great writer..she will always be remembered …my prayers go out to her family…just cannot put into words what I want to say…my prayers go out to you all..A great Lady she was..and I will forever listen to her great songs..my prayers also go out to the ones injured in the crash,,may God grant you all a speedy recovery.
I never got to meet Dottie, however, I know her very well. I have sung many of her songs along lifes way, and to all who know her songs, and have sung them… should know that Dottie Rambo knew God on a very personel level. I have recordings of Dottie Rambo singing her songs, and the spirit of God flows through the videos still. I know she must be treating the angels in gloryland to song as I speak, and how Heavens bells must be ringing. I am with the Mellon Family Gospel singers, and I desire the prayers of everyone that reads this, and pray for my group that we can accomplish just a small fraction of what Dottie Rambo has accomplished in her life, and that we will be a blessing to all the Churches we sing at. Most of all, pray that we may see souls saved as we journey down life road. May God bless you.
I only watched Dottie on TV- I did not know her.
I was always impressed by her love for the Lord, her bright personality and down to earth ways.
I liked her music, and I know she is in a better place, with Jesus.
I know people will think I’ve been living under a rock but I just found out that Dottie went home to be with God. I recently saw pictures of her where she was at Bishop Carlton Person’s church and was so very glad to see her there! Dottie always sang of home and had so much pain from her back surgery. I’ve had 4 back surgeries and could identify with her pain but not the horrific experience she went through during the surgery. I know that had to be awful but all that is over now and Dottie is HOME, finally on the other side. I envey her and look forward to seeing her when it’s my time to cross over.
as a southern gospel singer and minister. sis dottie, and buck and reba, has enpacted my life, and my family… honey reba could let it roar back and with her mom, we had a holy ghost time in the oklahoma campmeetings. reba i would love to se you and your husband its been along time. sis dottie and i had just spoke in paris tx, right before this.lord heaven is having a revival……..reba please get ahold of me and let me know how you and donnie and the children are.
we love you all so much.
revrobertcooper@yahoo.com
love bro sis cooper
MY DEAR SWEET DOTTIE HOW I MISS TALKING TO YOU ON THE PHONE SOME NIGHTS FOR HOURS HOW I MISS YOUR LAUGH YOUR SMILE I COULD TELL YOU ANYTHING NO MATTER HOW BAD I FELT YOU ALWAYS MADE IT BETTER I KNOW WHEN I GET TO THE GATES OF HEAVEN YOU AND OUR SWEET LILLIE MAE TOMLIN WILL BE THIER TO GREET ME I AM SO GLAD THAT OUR RESTING PLACE HERE ON THIS EARTH IS CLOSE TO YOURS AT THE MAUSOLEUM I WILL REST RIGHT OVERY YOU AND I COME OUT AND SET AND TALK TO YOU AND MOM TOMLIN ALL THE TIME IT WONT BE LONG DEAR FRIEND AND WE WILL MEET AGAIN I SANG YOUR SONGS EACH DAY AND TELL FOLKS ABOUT YOU YOUR MUSIC STILL LEADS FOLKS TO CHRIST I LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND MISS YOU SO MUCH YOU WILL FOREVEY LIVE IN MY HEART THANK GOD FOR MY FROENDSHIP WITH YOU.
TENNESSEE MICHAEL LANGSTON TOMLIN
Dear Reba: I shall always cherish the memory of your precious mother! I had been at a convention in Pennsylvania, but rushed to Canton, Ohio to hear your mother sing back in the ’80’s, I believe it was. I was running a bit late and thought I would not get a seat. The usher ushered me right up to the front where there was a seat just for little old me. I remember I was wearing a gray suit, long jacket, long skirt and I remember even though I was suffering from low self esteem, I remember how I felt to be ushered right up to the front where I could see and hear your mother’s sweet voice so clearly. She called me out of the audience and assured me that the Lord’s hand was upon my life. I told her that it was that year that I had won an award as State Soloist of the Year with her song, “I Go To The Rock.” She encouraged me by telling me that if I wanted to record it, she would remove all of the red tape for me to record it. I felt oh so honored even though I never recorded it. Just knowing she as a world renown singer would even talk with me and encourage me is a memory I shall forever hold in my heart. Shortly after meeting your mother, I was blessed with a television show wherein I hosted the program. It was televised on Tuesday and Friday nights. It was some time later that I was invited to Nashville, Tennessee by a gentleman named Dennis. He invited me to sing at Christ Church. I did and was so well received by Lanny, Pastor Hardwick and the entire church! Those were very precious days in my life and I thank the Lord with all of my heart for ever meeting your mother and for all of the many, many songs she has written and recorded. One of my favorites is “Sheltered In The Arms Of God.” It is a wonderful song for those of us who have been wounded in life because it gives us a marvelous sense of security to know that even when the storms of life rage, we don’t have to worry because we are SHELTERED SAFE WITHIN THE ARMS OF GOD. Praise his holy name!!! I look forward to seeing your mother in Heaven. I have also enjoyed your music too, Reba. You and your husband make a wonderful team and I remember hearing you some years ago and have always been blessed by your ministry. Keep up the good work for our Lord promises that if we are faithful until death, he will give us a crown of life so “let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9) One day soon, like your precious mother, we shall hear our blessed Lord say, “Well done thou good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things; I will make you ruler over many things; ENTER THOU INTO THE JOY OF THE LORD.” Reba, can you imagine how we will feel hearing those welcomed words from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ? “It will be worth it all,” said one song writer, “when we see Jesus; life’s trials will seem so small when we see Christ; one glimpse of his dear face all sorrow will erase so bravely run this race ’til we see Christ.” I say to you, Reba, what my dear Dad said to me when he knew he was passing from this life to the next, “If I don’t see you down here anymore, I’ll see you up there. I’ll be waiting for you.”
HEAVEN IS SWEETER BECAUSE DOTTIE IS THERE AND THE WORLD LOST BIG WHEN SHE DIED AND HER SONG WILL GO ON BUT SHE WILL SADLY BE MISS, GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN .
Hello to all of Sister Dottie Rambo iam also deeply sadned by her passing she will always be with us in our hearts her music will always live on she was a great insperration to alot of people
I HEARD YOU SING YEARS AGO AND HAVE NEVER FORGOTEN YOUR PRECIOUS GIFT OF SONG AND MUSIC. I KNOW YOU ARE TEACHING ANGELS HOW TO SING! HEAVEN IS YOUR ETERNAL HOME AND WE MISS YOU HERE, BUT ONE DAY WE SHALL ALL BE TOGETHER PRASING GOD TOGETHER!
God’s gift of spiritual enrichment to God’s people through the medium of her very own productions. The people’s singer, our source of inspiration and God’s own revival fire that burned to its close in the life and ministry of Dottie Rambo. Lord give us more Dotties ! Rev Jim
I was with Dottie when she lived in the mobile home in Kentucky. She told me to never quench the gift. Little Joe Hatfield took me and my sister to visit. I will always enjoy her writing and singing but will miss the gift so much. Not many know Jesus like Dottie did and that made her music alive. Dianne Sloan, I lived in Evansville , Indiana when Dottie was with Rev. Harold Ashbee. I was 10. I am now 68 but those many years only deepened my love for Dottie. Miss you!