Dorothy Jean Melanson

Dorothy was born on September 27, 1936 to William F. Bennett and Esther Boothe in Homerville, Georgia. She is survived by her husband Clarence P. Melanson, daughters Dona Doran, Dee Baute, Cheryl Hayden and Renee Melanson, a son Steven Melanson, their respective families, sister Betty Scott, and brothers Ronnie Bennett and Harley Bennett. She was preceded in death by many, including 2 grandchildren (Jason Melanson and Steven Doran) and 4 brothers (Royce, Junior, Donald and Kenny).

Dorothy was raised, by Willam and Mildred Bennett, and attended school in Tampa, Florida. In her 20’s she relocated to Boston, Massachusetts where she worked as a nursing assistant for several years. She left to raise a family of five children. She returned to Tampa in 1980 and worked for the school department as an attendant on a handicap bus. In the many years to follow she gained 12 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren with numbers 11 and 12 soon to arrive.

Dorothy was a compassionate person who cared for her mother and uncle until their passing. She fostered children and hosted exchange students. Her home was always open to anyone in need.

Dorothy liked to knit and sew and was proficient in both. She could do anything she tried including making dolls, reupholstering furniture, gardening, cake decorating and many more talents.

Dorothy, you were one amazing person whose presence will be truly missed by all of us. You filled our lives with so much love and happiness that can never be replaced. Goodbye, my dearest.

A visitation for Dorothy will be held Tuesday, September 5, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, September 5, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511. A graveside service will occur Tuesday, September 5, 2023 from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HillsboroMemorial.com for the Melanson family.