Dorothy L. Redding

Dorothy LaVerne (White) Redding, age 83, of Ellicott City, Maryland, passed away peacefully at her home on April 8, 2025. Born to John Clifton White and Della LaVerne Peer at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington D.C., Dorothy was the middle child, with an older brother, Leonard Owen White, and a younger sister, Linda Elaine Zarow. Dorothy was a beloved wife, artist, educator, and community member.

Dorothy married Daniel (“Danny”) H. Redding on December 29, 1962, at St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church in Baltimore, Maryland. She often said she met Danny when she was 14 and spent the rest of her life with him. While their personalities and interests were different, they had a deep and abiding love and respect for each other. Danny encouraged Dorothy to get her education and to pursue her dreams. Dorothy was a proud graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, graduating suma cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art and Art Education and going on to obtain her master’s degree. She continued her learning journey with additional post-graduate studies. Her professional affiliations included the Maryland Pastel Society, the Baltimore Watercolor Society, and an honorary membership in the Howard County Pastel Society.

Dorothy was an extraordinary artist and teacher. Her artistic talents were vast and varied. She was known for her realistic depictions of animals and still lifes. Her work was exhibited at numerous galleries, including the Baltimore Museum of Art, Marine Art Gallery, Lyric Theater, Jaffae Art Gallery, Katzensteins Gallery, Langsdale Gallery, Slayton House, Baltimore Kennel Club, and the Fells Point Gallery. Her historical paintings, such as "Eva B. Seeley and Dogs" and "Robert J. Zoller and his four foundation dogs," are part of permanent collections at the Dog Museum of America and the AKC Library/Museum in New York City.

Dorothy retired early from teaching at Howard Community College to pursue her dream of having her own art school. She founded the Redding Academy of Fine Arts where she taught step-by-step techniques inspired by the masters to students of all ages and backgrounds, including many who could not otherwise afford a formal art education. She charged minimal fees and often worked well past the end of class with her students. Her school was located next to Danny’s office in Columbia, Maryland where Dorothy and Danny worked side by side until his death in 2016. Dorothy felt his loss deeply but found great comfort in her students. She continued teaching until she was forced to close due to the pandemic.

Dorothy was also known for her profound love for dogs, especially Alaskan Malamutes, known for their loyalty and companionship. Her dedication to the breed was best demonstrated by her fostering and involvement with the Alaskan Malamute Club of America, Inc. It was rare to see her without one by her side even when teaching. Navarre, her last Alaskan Malamute, stayed by her side until he passed away from cancer in December 2024.

Dorothy's legacy lives on through her students whose lives she touched and her beautiful art, each piece carrying a small part of Dorothy’s heart and soul. Her artwork will continue to touch lives, spreading her love and passion far and wide, ensuring that her spirit remains with us forever.

Family and Friends may visit the Donaldson Funeral Home of Clarksville, P.A., 12540 Clarksville Pike, Clarksville, MD 21029 from 9:30 am to 10:30 am on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 with the funeral service immediately following. Interment will be private.