1924 – 2014

SOUTH PARIS — Dorothy Mary Teresa (Johnson) Connell, 89, passed away peacefully at her home, following a long illness, surrounded by the love of family on Friday, May 30.

She was born in New Orleans, La., to James C. and Annie M. (Strohmeyer) Johnson. She attended school in New Orleans and in 1971, enrolled in the University of Southern Maine and completed three and a half years of a bachelor’s degree in social work.

She had various jobs, but most enjoyed her work with the Head Start program at Community Concepts and later worked with older residents in the community.

She was named citizen of the year for the town of Norway from 1995 to 1996.

Dot enjoyed watching birds and loved music, family gatherings, good food, going for rides and visiting with family and friends. Her 75th birthday party was a great surprise to her and was attended by several family members from Louisiana, which delighted her. Two years ago, she took a road trip with her son, Walter, to New Orleans to visit with family and attended the Mardi Gras celebration once again.

She is survived by her nine children, JoAnn Ferraro and her husband, Eugene, of Massachusetts, Chester Connell of South Paris, Donna Berry of Massachusetts, Walter Connell of Harrison, Dorothy “Lee” Berry and her husband, Don, of Sumner, Daniel Connell of West Paris, Bruce Connell of Louisiana, Kenneth Connell of West Paris and Ruthy Hebert and her husband, Anthony, of West Paris. She was a loving grandmother to many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by five sisters, all of Louisiana, Madeline Morlas, Lucille Poole, Louise Harmeyer, Audrey Casey and Gwendolyn Gagliano; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents; grandson, Charlie Connell; granddaughter, Patricia Berry; sisters, Anna Mendoza and Gloria Johnson; and brothers, James, Frederick, Willie, Lawrence and Bernard.

The family would like to thank Dr. Medd and all the staff at OHIM, as well as the staff at Stephens Memorial Hospital, Market Square and Norway Rehabilitation, Jody Proctor and staff of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice and especially her home care providers for the past three months, for your help during her final journey over the past year with her failing health.

Mom, you may be gone, but will never be forgotten. The memories you have left behind are priceless and will warm our hearts every time we think of you. ‘Til we meet again … XO.

Online condolences may be shared with her family at www.chandlerfunerals.com.