Dorothy E. Hanson

Born and raised in Fall River, Massachusetts, Dorothy was the daughter of the late James and Eleanora (Alua) Lewis. She was predeceased by her brothers James, Ernest, and Joseph, and her beloved sister Pearl, with whom she shared an especially close bond. She is survived by her sister Gail Desmarais and her husband, Arthur, of Florida. Dorothy cherished the many Florida adventures Gail shared with her—adventures filled with laughter and love. She also leaves many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.

Dorothy shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, Donald L. Hanson, until his passing in 2013. Together, they built a life centered on family and simple pleasures, including their many treasured day trips to Cape Cod.

For more than 30 years, Dorothy worked at Kerr Mill, where she made many lifelong friends. Sweet, spunky, strong, and spirited, Dorothy loved music, sweets, and, above all, her family. Christmas was especially magical in her home, filled with music, cooking, and traditions her family will forever cherish.

Dorothy was a devoted mother to Donald G. Hanson and Patricia Faria. She also held a special place in her heart for those who became part of her family, including Patricia’s late husband, John Faria, and Donald’s former wife, Melanie Hanson.

She was a proud grandmother to Quinn Hanson (Surya Isaza-Figueroa), Briana Ferreira (Scott Bazinet) Evan Hanson (Amanda Desrosiers) Elona Hanson, and Julia Faria, and a cherished great-grandmother to Anaias, Quill, Elliana, Ilo, Ezekiel, and Takota.

Dorothy also loved Dollar Store trips with her son Donald, who enjoyed spoiling her with his special homemade breakfasts. Don was also the one who could get Dorothy to exercise the most, thanks to his humor and loving persistence. When her eyesight failed, Patricia, with whom she lived, became her eyes—reading books aloud to her and spending countless hours together laughing over Schitt’s Creek. Dorothy also lived with her granddaughter Briana and Scott, who spoiled her with love, kindness, and thoughtful care, making her feel cherished and surrounded by family each day.

One of Dorothy’s greatest joys was her great-granddaughter Elliana. Their bond was truly special; they weren’t simply great-grandmother and great-granddaughter—they were best friends.

Anyone who opened Dorothy’s door knew exactly what they would hear: “Who’s that?” Those two little words capture the warmth, humor, and unmistakable spirit of the woman her family adored.

Dorothy’s family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her caregiver and dear friend, Chloe Alfonso, with whom Dorothy formed a beautiful and immediate bond. Dorothy also treasured the enduring friendship of her longtime childhood friend, Doris Sakell, whose friendship remained a special part of her life through the years.

The family would also like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff of the Charlton Memorial Hospital Emergency Room for the attention, compassion, and care they provided to Dorothy and Patricia during their time of need. Their kindness will always be remembered.

Her life was a gift. Her love was a blessing. And her memory will forever be part of us.

Rest peacefully, Mom. You were so deeply loved in this life, and you will be loved and missed for all of ours.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dotties honor may be made to: Forever Paws Animal Shelter, 300 Lynwood Street, Fall River, MA 02721

Her Funeral will be held on Thursday, October 01, 2026 at 10:00AM in the Waring-Sullivan Home at Cherry Place, 178 Winter Street, Fall River, MA 02720 followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00AM in St. Bernard's Church, 30 South Main Street, Assonet, MA 02702. Relatives and friends are invited. Visitation Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00PM.Burial is Private.