Dorothy Kay Sooknanan

Dorothy Kay Sooknanan, 64, of Valparaiso, Florida, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on August 4, 2026.

Born on November 4, 1961, in Monterey, California, to David Joseph Ferea and Edeltraud Manhart, Dorothy brought color, laughter, and boundless warmth into the world from the very beginning. She later married Tamashwar Sooknanan in El Paso, Texas, and earned her bachelor’s degree, building a life marked by creativity, energy, and deep care for those around her.

Dorothy was lighthearted and deeply caring—the kind of person whose love for others knew no limits. Witty and quick with a unique sense of humor, she had a gift for lighting up any room she entered. Wherever she went, she was the life of the party, bringing laughter, warmth, and a spark that made everyone around her feel more alive.

She poured her heart into gardening and planting flowers, turned heads as a talented fashion designer, stayed strong as an avid gym enthusiast, and was endlessly fascinated by Egyptian culture. She dazzled as a professional belly dancer, always moving through life with color, creativity, and pure joyful energy.

Dorothy is survived by her devoted husband, Tamashwar Sooknanan; her children, Laleta Sooknanan, Shane Sooknanan, and Jasmine Sooknanan; her grandson, Julian Sooknanan; and her sisters, Patty Shaw and Margit Strickland.

She was preceded in death by her parents, David Joseph Ferea and Edeltraud Manhart; and her brother, David Joseph Ferea Jr.

A funeral service will be held at Davis Watkins Funeral Home, 113 Racetrack Road Northeast, Fort Walton Beach, FL, 32547 beginning at 3:30PM. The family will begin receiving friends one hour prior. 

Those who knew and loved Dorothy are invited to share their memories and stories in the online guestbook so that her light and laughter may continue to be celebrated by all who held her dear.

Dorothy’s vibrant spirit, generous heart, and joyful presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.