Dorrett May Rhoden was one of ten children, born to Mr. Jethro Rhoden and Ms. Mildren Camren on September 19, 1962. She left us unexpectedly after a valiant battle with cancer on December 19, 2019. In true Dorrett style, after receiving such a heart-wrenching diagnosis, her attitude remained positive and her spirit unshakable. This is the Dorrett we will forever remember!
She leaves behind many friends, loved ones, and family members, including her beloved daughter, Ashley, and five-year old granddaughter, Dayna-Lee. Along with our hearts which are breaking with this loss, Dorrett also left us with memories to cherish.
Jamaica was home to Dorrett; however, Colorado Springs was also where she resided 8 months of the year, after joining The Broadmoor family in 2001. She was born to be Broadmoor, proud of the service she provided, and a mentor, support, and true “mama” to her teammates in the Housekeeping Department. Dorrett was a prankster with a quick wit and mischievous grin, which always led to some friendly teasing. She regularly took credit for keeping her colleagues “in line,” often times blaming them (jokingly) for things that may have gone awry!
Dorrett’s pride in her position was evident. She never took shortcuts, and expected that everyone would take care of the Department, Hotel, and Guests, just as she, “by the book”. That same moral standing was the way she lived her life, passionately caring about others, being there in times of need, and simply ever-present, without anyone having to ask.
The love for Colorado and Dorrett’s Broadmoor family were undeniable, but she never forgot her “Rasta Spirit,” which thrived in Jamaica. She loved the ocean, swimming to Cabarita Island (much to her mother’s distain), cooking her favorite fish dishes, and surrounding herself with family abounding, never saying no to company.
As our hearts heal, there will be a point when grief turns into treasured memories. Instead of the void in her absence, we will one day be able to reflect upon the wonderful times shared, the laughter she brought, and the gifts to the heart, which remain.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 27th at 4:00pm in the Rocky Mountain Ballroom, with formal services pending in Jamaica.