Dorothea “Mama Dot” M. Smith Gelpi peacefully entered into eternal rest on Monday, November 6, 2017 at the age of 96. Former wife of the late James Joseph Gelpi, Sr. Daughter of the late Frank T. Smith and Ethel Schumann Smith. Loving mother of James J. Gelpi, Jr., John D. Gelpi, Barbara Gelpi Baier (Paul), Frank T. Gelpi, Margaret Gelpi Miller (Ron), Stephen G. Gelpi (Evelyn), Thomas M. Gelpi, Theodore M. Gelpi, Robert C. Gelpi (Linda) and Joseph V. Gelpi (Susie). Devoted grandmother of Louisiana Mei, Wes, Paco, Justin, Lindsey, Katherine, Hannah, Emily, Michelle, Jessica, Jaime and Justin. Sister of Richard “Dick” Smith and the late Frank “Bud” Smith, Robert “Bobby” Smith and Barbara Hearn-Wright. Dorothea is also survived by 6 great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews. Dorothea was born in Boston, Mass and was a resident of Gretna, LA. She served her country while enlisted in the United States Navy USNR for 3 years. The family would like to extend a sincere appreciation to the staff of Hospice Compassus and the staff of Woldenberg Living Center for their love and care given to Dorothea. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Gretna Food Bank, 1400 Jefferson Street, Gretna, LA 70053, 504-367-6676 or to a favorite charity of your choice in memory of Dorothea. Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation at MOTHE FUNERAL HOME, 2100 Westbank Expressway, Harvey, LA on Saturday, November 18, 2017 from 10AM until 12 Noon. A Memorial Mass will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at 12 Noon. Interment will be held privately at a later date.