Dorene G. Haverty

Dorene Gayle Haverty, known lovingly as "Dee Dee," passed away on April 12, 2026, at the age of 84. A lifelong resident of Fresno, California, Dorene was born on January 15, 1942, in Fresno to Michael Richard Giordano and Doris Edna Giordano (Lehr).

Dorene graduated from Fresno High School with the Class of 1959 and went on to attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where she left a lasting mark by being a founding member of the Cal Poly Letter Girls team. Dorene performed with the Cal Poly Letter Girls team at the Mercy Bowl at the Los Angeles Coliseum in 1961. She later continued her education at Fresno State University, earning her bachelor's degree in 1965.

In 1963, Dorene married Tom Haverty, beginning a partnership built on love and devotion that would span more than six decades. She was a faithful wife and a deeply dedicated mother. After graduating, Dorene began her teaching career with Clovis Unified School District, where she taught kindergarten until 1972. She then turned her full attention to raising her two children, Tommy (Tom Jr.) and Melissa, devoting herself wholeheartedly to their activities and events throughout their childhood. Once her children were grown, Dorene returned to her passion for education, teaching at Computer Tots and Cullinan Learning Center, where she continued shaping young minds with warmth and enthusiasm.

Beyond the classroom, Dorene lived a full and vibrant life. She enjoyed photography and loved to travel. Above all, she treasured time spent with family and friends. She was especially proud to be a grandmother to her daughter's three children, Americo, Sophia, and Rocco, enjoying watching a new generation grow.

Dorene was preceded in death by her father, Michael Richard Giordano; her mother, Doris Edna Giordano; and her brother, Michael Richard Giordano II. She is survived by her beloved husband, Tom Haverty Sr.; her son, Tom Haverty Jr.; her daughter, Melissa Bruce and husband Daniel Bruce; and her grandchildren Americo Bruce, Sophia Bruce, and Rocco Bruce.

Dorene's gentle spirit and generous heart touched everyone who knew her. May she rest in God's peaceful embrace.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home located at 836 E. Nees Avenue, Fresno, CA 93720.