Dorothy Gavin Colanton

Beloved mother of Christopher Gavin (grandson Jake), Shawn Gavin (Sarrah) and granddaughter Margaret, and Brian Gavin all whom she shared with Edmond Gavin.

Sister of Kathleen Kattany, Janice Meyer, Constance Duggan, Thomas Duggan (Cindy) and Frank Duggan (Linda). Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Dorothy is predeceased by her husband, Daniel Colanton and her parents Barbara and Thomas Duggan.

She was a peaceful, caring, and compassionate woman whose strength and independence shaped the lives of those around her. A devoted mother and grandmother she always encouraged her family to chase their dreams and live with purpose.

While raising her three sons she earned her nursing degree from St. Vincent’s College in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and went on to a long career in nursing where she found great passion in geriatric care. She provided care with dignity and kindness.

She enjoyed gardening and took pride in maintaining her home, always working on whatever project needed attention. In her later years, she devoted herself to researching her family’s genealogy, tracing her lineage back to Ireland reflecting her deep pride in her Boston Irish Catholic roots.

Dorothy enjoyed spending time in both New Vineyard and at Porter Lake in Maine with her siblings, close friends, and extended family.

Her life was a gift to her family, and her legacy of love, strength, and encouragement will live on through them always.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Dorothy and her passion for nursing, consider a gift to Sacred Heart University College of Nursing Scholarship Fund - https://bit.ly/dorothy-gavin

Visiting hours will be Friday, March 27, 2026, from 4-7 pm at Swan Funeral Home at 825 Boston Post Rd. Madison, CT 06443.

Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 10 am at St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy Street, Madison, CT 06443, followed by burial service at West Cemetery 33-55 Jannas Lane, Madison, CT 06443