Dorothy Bracilano

Bracilano Dorothy Bracilano, passed away on the afternoon of July 1, 2014 at Bethany Retirement Community in Chicago, IL with her daughter, Linda, by her side. Dorothy, known fondly as Dottie, passed peacefully and with grace. Dottie was born in New York City on October 28,1926. She spent her early years in Manhattan where she performed as an off-Broadway actress and met her now late husband Fred Bracilano. A devoted wife and beloved mother of four, Dottie spent 58 wonderful years married to Fred, a United Methodist minister, until his passing in January 2008. Dottie had a passion for education, serving as a preschool director for over 25 years, and the remarkable ability to turn any social situation into a celebration. She made loving homes for her family in Jacksonville, FL, New Haven, CT, Cincinnati, OH and areas of the West Ohio Conference, standing by her husband and following him wherever he was called to serve. Dottie and Fred retired in Hilliard, OH and were members of the Scioto Ridge UMC. Dottie was passionate about meeting new people and serving her community. She spent the last half of her life acting as President of the United Methodist Women, Director of Christian Education and ushering for many theatrical productions. All who met her loved her enthusiasm and appreciated her caring spirit. Dottie is survived by her four children, Fred Jr., David, Linda, and Peter; her seven grandchildren; and her brother, Otto Luhrs. The family is planning a Celebration of Life service in Seattle at a future time. On behalf of her family, we send grateful blessings to all family, friends, neighbors and members of her community who provided the outpouring of love and prayers that helped Dottie through her final months. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to West Ohio United Methodist Woman in Dottie's name, http://www.westohioumw.org, or to the charity of your choice. With love and gratitude for a life well lived.