Dotty was born July 8, 1922 in Arlington, MA to Esther and Oscar Benson and was raised in Watertown with her doting brother Donald. In seventh grade dancing school she met her future husband David, who eventually grew taller than Dotty.
After graduating from Watertown High School where Dotty served as secretary for just about every student group, she attended Mt. Ida Jr. College at the start of World War II. As her beloved David flew his B-17 over Germany, Dotty worked blood lines “for our boys overseas.” She pursued a career at John Hancock Insurance, starting in the mail room in stylish outfits and high heels. Advancing to management, she married, and put David through Harvard Dental School.
Moving to Weston, Dotty skillfully managed their home dental office and nurtured her busy children. She loved her decades in Weston and Chatham with her family, enjoying southwest breezes off Nantucket Sound and sunset rounds of golf at Eastward Ho!
After educating everyone, at the age of 71 Dotty graduated from Regis College with a BA in sociology with husband, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews all attending in awe.
Happily married for 63 years, David predeceased Dotty in 2012. She leaves, all devoted: Sister-in-law Marie Farrell; son David (Amy Rokicki) and grandsons David and Sam; daughter Dorothy, husband Stan Shelton, granddaughter Lindsay, and grandson Benjamin; predeceased son James’ wife Martha Pyle Farrell, grandson Joseph, and granddaughter Isabelle; son John, wife Elizabeth Derose, granddaughter Elizabeth, and grandson Aidan; nieces Pat, Sue Ann, Mary Beth, nephew Shea Farrell, and their children; plus a multitude of friends. She was blessed to have wonderful nurses care for her at home during her final years. She loved everyone.
Visitation will be held at Nickerson Funeral Home, 87 Crowell Road, Chatham on Friday, June 23rd from 5 to 7 PM, with Mass at Holy Redeemer Church, 57 Highland Street, Chatham on Saturday, June 24th at 10 AM. Remembrances can be made to the Regis Fund or the Belmont Hill School, James D. Farrell ’76 Fund.
For online condolences, please visit http://www.nickersonfunerals.com/
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