Dorolyn Edith Smalletz

She was the daughter of the late Arthur and Dorothy Kophen. Born in Bronx, NY, she lived in Rockville Center, Long Island, Croton-on-Hudson, NY, and West Caldwell, NJ before moving to Rockaway Township, NJ, in 1969. She lived in Rockaway Township for 40 years before moving to Carolina Preserve in Cary, NC in 2009.

Dorie was a Registered Nurse, receiving her training at St. Luke’s Hospital School for Nursing in NYC.

Dorie was deeply loved as a wife, mother, and grandmother and her values will continue to influence and guide us. These are the roles that she cherished the most and brought her the most happiness. She was devoted to her family and forever put their needs in front of her own, showing us all the meaning of unconditional love. She will live in our hearts forever. Dorie had an engaging, enthusiastic personality, and was always full of fun. Her unique sense of humor and take on life will be sorely missed by the many people, whose lives she made brighter.

Dorie loved to stay active with walking, bowling, gardening, swimming, playing cards, and piano. This appreciation and talent for music was passed on to her children and grandchildren. She loved mingling with friends in various clubs at Carolina Preserve. Dorie enjoyed ACC college basketball and was a die-hard fan of both Duke and Wake Forest. She also enjoyed years of watching her children, and then grandchildren, compete in a wide range of sports including marching band, baseball, softball, track, cross-country, basketball, volleyball, soccer, tennis, fencing, and ultimate frisbee. She adored her children and grandchildren and was so proud of each one of them.

Dorie belonged to the St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing Alumnae Association and the Russell Sage College Alumnae Association. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of the Rockaways since 1970, where she met her beloved husband, Norman while counting current expenses. The church women put her at Norm’s table to help and that’s how it all began. Those lady matchmakers! Their love story was a partnership built on mutual respect, deep affection, and a shared joy. Together they raised a family and built a life filled with laughter and devotion for 46 years.

Dorie is survived by her beloved husband of 46 years, Norman Smalletz of Cary, NC; a dear daughter and best friend, Cindy Smalletz (Adam Enea) of Glen Ridge, NJ; and two loving sons, Tim Grant (Lesley) of Bensalem, PA; Dr. Gerry Grant (Dr. Nicole Grant) of Durham, NC; four grandchildren, Katie, Colin, Rachel, and Elliot Grant and dog Seigla too!