Zalean Dora Dowless Robertson

Zalean Dora Dowless Robertson, 76, of Elizabethtown, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at home surrounded by loving family members. She was born to the late Dewitt and Ethel Lee Bryan Dowless on December 3, 1949.

Zalean is survived by her three sons: Stephen Patrick Burney (Tracy) of Bladenboro, Jeffrey Lynn Burney (Lori) of Franklinton, and Kenneth Daniel Burney of Tar Heel; eight grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was one of seven children with four brothers: Grady, Willard “Bill”, David and Isaac Dowless and two sisters: Erma Lamb and Georgia Hill.

Zalean was known as a devoted Christian, wife, mother, sister, and grandmother. She found her greatest joy in looking after others. She was a steadfast caregiver to her family and extended that same warmth, protection, and love to the children she watched over. Her grandchildren have many fond memories of her entertaining them in the playroom.

Zalean was an accomplished chef known for her culinary talent. During the summer, she could often be found harvesting fresh vegetables or cutting flowers from her extensive garden. She had a passion for traveling the world, visiting different countries. In her later years, she enjoyed watching many hours of vintage westerns relaxing in her recliner. Zalean will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, May 24th from 6-8pm at Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown. The funeral service will be held at 11am on Monday, May 25th at Community Baptist Church in Bladenboro with Pastor Daniel Jackson officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Gentiva Hospice Care and to all those who helped care for her during her extended illness.