By RACHEL C. DOVE

Staff Writer

A woman who died in a house fire yesterday was an active part of the community.

The tragic news that quickly spread through the tight-knit community of Laurel Creek, that the owner and sole occupant of the burned home had perished in the blaze, was heart-wrenching for all who knew her.

Dorothy King, 65, was home alone at the time of the blaze.

Neighbors and friends spoke with the Daily News about her, and said that Dorothy’s husband had passed away a few years ago and although she had children and grandchildren in the area, she liked her independence and continued to live in the house where she and her husband had raised their children.

Dorothy was actively involved as a Mingo County 4-H leader for many years, as her children and grandchildren participated with the club.

Bill Richardson, West Virginia University Extension Professor for Mingo County, described Dorothy as a faithful 4-H leader for decades, and said in the early years of the club when it was difficult to recruit volunteers, she was always faithful, dependable and dedicated.

“All her children and several of her grandchildren were members of the 4-H club, and they probably wouldn’t have been if it hadn’t been for Dorothy,” Bill remarked. “Some of her family members went on to become leaders themselves, following in the footsteps of a wonderful lady.

“My condolences go out to Dorothy’s family and friends,” he said. “She will be greatly missed.”

Gloria Blair of Williamson also spoke kindly of Dorothy, and of the years they had spent together with the 4-H club as parents who filled the role of leaders. Gloria commented that no matter the task asked of her, Dorothy always accepted the challenge and came through for the kids.

“There were always volunteer assignments that no one else wanted, but Dorothy didn’t mind. She always stepped up to the plate and did whatever was asked of her without a second thought,” said Gloria.

“She was a great lady and a great friend. Her health had been going downhill in the past year or so, and she was having trouble with swelling and pain in her legs. It saddens me greatly that we have lost her.

“It will be a loss for everyone.”