NAPLES, Fla. – Dorothy Ray Dernavich, 91, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14, in Naples. Known by family and friends as Dotty Ray (Mimi by her grandchildren), she was born in Ocala, Fla., on January 3, 1934, and was the daughter of W. Raymond and Dorothy (Boyce) Daniel.
She grew up in Barre, Vermont, and attended Spaulding High School, where she met the love of her life, John A. Dernavich. From there she moved on to Northfield Mount Hermon, and eventually finished her education at Wheelock College. She married John in 1953, and they celebrated 72 years of marriage this past September.
They were devoted to each other and shared many cherished memories throughout their years together, raising two children, while running a business in Wilbraham, Mass. They also spent time at their summer home in Greensboro, Vt., which was special to Dotty Ray, as well as their winter home in Waitsfield, Vt., where they eventually lived full time. Friends and family were always welcome in their homes, and Dotty Ray always worked very hard at making all visits special occasions. During these years, she and John enjoyed playing tennis, golfing, skiing and traveling.
Eventually, Dotty Ray and John ended up moving full time to Naples. There they developed many new close friendships in their golf community, as well as friends made while spending time listening to local jazz artists and spending time at their much-loved Philharmonic. Dotty Ray gained respect and affection from all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her family and friends will remember her warmth, resilience, and unwavering spirit, and for those who knew her best, just how quietly sharp and witty she could be. And people always commented on her beautiful blue eyes.
Dotty Ray is survived by her husband, John A. Dernavich; her children, John D. Dernavich (Diane Stiles) and Kimberly Dernavich Nierenhausen (Luke); her four grandchildren, Tylea (Dernavich) Gebbie, Andrew Dernavich, Luke Nierenhausen, and Adam Nierenhausen, as well as seven great grandchildren, all who loved her dearly.
She will be laid to rest in the family mausoleum in Elmwood Cemetery in Barre, Vt. A graveside service to honor and celebrate her life will be held at a time to be announced in the spring.
As we remember Dorothy, we invite all who knew her to celebrate her life and the profound impact she had on those around her. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in her memory to a charity of your choice.
Rest in peace, Dorothy R. Dernavich (Dotty Ray, Mom, Gram, Mimi). We will miss you so much, but your love will live on in the hearts of all of those you touched.
Arrangements are by Hooker Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Barre. For a memorial guestbook, please visit www.hookerwhitcomb.com
