Dorothy I. Humphreys, age 81 of Big Rapids, passed away Saturday, November 24, 2007 at Mecosta County Medical Center. She was born August 6, 1926 in Big Rapids the daughter of Ira and Johanna (Zimmerman) Gifford. Dorothy graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1944. She attended Olivet College, earning her Bachelors Degree in music. Dorothy married Clarence Humphreys of Casnovia on August 29, 1947. Together they finished their last year of college education at Olivet and then moved to Weidman where they both accepted their first teaching assignments. Dorothy furthered her education with a Masters in Education and later taught at Jackson Northwest Schools and Vermontville. The family lived many years in Vermontville where Dorothy taught music and mathematics. She was known for creating exceptional seasonal music programs and her award winning choir directing. Dorothy retired in 1988 and returned to Big Rapids to make her home in 1993. She is survived by her loving family; Four children; Peter (Theresa) Humphreys of Kalamazoo Thomas Humphreys of Big Rapids Sarah (David) Village of Berrien Springs Laurel Humphreys of Detroit Four grandchildren and one great grandchild. Besides her parents, Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband Clarence in 1981 and an eleven year old brother, Dale Gifford. A memorial service for Dorothy will take place 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 1, 2007 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Reverend Jon Fleming officiating. The family will greet friends one hour prior to services.