Dorothy “Jean” Sauze

Dorothy “Jean” Sauze, 92, of Midland, passed away on Monday, March 14, 2022 surrounded by her beloved family. The family will receive and visit with friends on Saturday, March 26, 2022 from 10:30 AM -11:30 AM.  The Celebration of Jean’s Life will begin at 12:00 PM at Nalley – Pickle & Welch Chapel located at 3800 N. Big Spring Street in Midland.  Burial will follow at Resthaven Cemetery.

Jean was born on December 26, 1929 to Noodie and Frank Sauze in Vernon, TX.  She grew up in Abilene with her identical twin sister, June, who together were lifelong confidents and compatriots which was evident to anyone who experienced their presence. They completed each other in a way only twins can understand. Jean and June played saxophone while in high school and college, one alto and one tenor to provide harmonies as they practiced and played.  Jean graduated from Abilene High School and later attended Texas Tech and graduated from McMurry College with a BS degree in Business Administration.  After graduation, she moved with her family to Midland and started her career first at Standard Oil Company, and in 1955, began 39+ years with Hunt Oil Company as an administrative assistant in production for the superintendent.  Seeing the value of going into the field, she spent time with the engineers learning the industry through “hands-on” experiences.  Those rich experiences in the oilfield and in the office contributed to her knowledge, understanding and appreciation for the industry she loved.  She endeared herself to those with whom she worked, resulting in much respect and many lifelong friendships.

Jean spent many vacations in Walla Walla WA, Ruidoso NM, and boy’s camp meeting near Ft Davis TX with her family and friends enjoying each for their own unique offerings of adventure and beauty. Jean also vacationed on a Panama Canal Cruise encompassing both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of the US, as well as London, England, and numerous locations across the Southwest.

Jean carried herself with grace and sophistication.  Her interest in people and what they did, mattered to her.  She was a learner.  She listened.  She had ideas and a brilliant way of sharing them.  Her high standard of doing things right was so practiced that it seemed effortless, and humility was consistently exemplified.  Jean was a role model and a mentor for many who knew her as she devoted her life serving others. People of all walks of life got a dazzling smile and a welcoming spirit.  Her clever wit and charming personality gave people the gift of remembering how valued they were in her presence.

Jean’s devotion to her family, friends, job and hobbies were evident by the time, preparation and planning she dedicated to each cause; Whether it be styling her mom’s hair before work or being the companion and caregiver for her Dad after the loss of her Mom; attending events to champion her parents, twin sister, nieces, nephew, great nieces and nephews, and friends or the 24/7/365 care she gave to her identical twin sister for the later years of her life. Jean gave generously with an undying love and selfless spirit.

Jean discovered a love for porcelain art in the 1950’s and held membership in the Midland Porcelain Art Club (MPAC) and Women’s Club of Midland most, if not all, of these years. Being a longtime member with others that shared her passion became some of her dearest friends. Jean’s love of the art was reflected in the many beautiful pieces she has painted, shown, and shared over the years.

Jean loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  She believed in the one true God and His plan for salvation and truth of eternity.  She was raised in the Methodist church, attending with her family regularly, laying the strong foundation for her to accept His incredible gift of salvation. Her commitment to God was evident in her everyday walk.  Jean enjoyed many activities in the church including Sunday school and Worship services, and Precepts Bible studies. Jean also took advantage of the exercise circuit three times a week when she was active. Jean was a member of Rainbow Girls and Norman Reed Chapter of the Eastern Star for many years.

Jean’s nieces, nephew, and grands were the joys of her life, and her love for them revealed itself throughout her lifetime of cooking for, doting on, and spoiling them.

Her legacy is how she impacted the lives she encountered.  She was loved and highly respected.  How she conducted her life with grace, kindness and love, and a deep appreciation of beautiful things will not fade.  She was gentle and humble, engaging, funny, and more than willing to join in with what was going on. Jean will be immeasurably missed.

She is survived by her niece, Evelynn Braden and her husband, Randy; great nephews, James Braden, Aaron Braden and Nathan Braden, and great niece, and Nathan’s wife, Jaqlynn; niece, Cindy Griffith and her husband, Jim; nephew, Steven Dunkin; great nieces, Blair Dunkin, and Lauren Dunkin; and several cousins.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Noodie Mae Sauze; identical twin sister, Doris “June” Sauze Dunkin and several cousins.

Pallbearers will be Steven Dunkin, Jim Griffith, Randy Braden, James Braden, Aaron Braden, and Nathan Braden. Honorary pallbearers will be Blair Dunkin, Lauren Dunkin and Jaqlynn Braden.

The family suggests memorials be donated to Legacy Ranch Memory Care of Midland, 4800 Briarwood, Midland 79707, Heart to Heart Hospice of Midland, 223 W Wall St. Suite #220, Midland 79701 or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.