Dorothy Adelaide Butler "Dot" Stern

Dorothy B. 'Dot' Stern, formerly of Coatesville Dorothy "Dot" Adelaide Butler Stern, 91, passed away peacefully at Tel Hai Retirement Community after a short illness surrounded by her family on September 22, 2012. She was born to John and Anna Butler of Coatesville on October 28, 1920. Raised in a vibrant Irish family in Coatesville, she attended St. Cecilia's School and Parish Church in her youth. She graduated in 1938 from Coatesville High School. As a young woman she enjoyed attending band concerts and dances. She married the late Thomas J. Stern Sr., and they built a home together outside Coatesville. Together they raised three children and were active in their community. Dorothy participated in cub scouts as den mother, created crafts for church bazaars at St. Cecilia's, and enjoyed card club with friends for many years. Later Dorothy and Tom took up golfing and gardening together. She also served on the Coatesville Hospital Women's Auxiliary. They explored the world through cruises on the Atlantic Ocean with friends. They embraced their roles as supportive, loving parents and grandparents. Dorothy filled her home with her upbeat attitude and her tuneful whistling. In her later years, Dorothy remained faithful to her church and cherished the memories of the Coatesville of her youth and her family. She is survived by her three children, (and spouses): Suzanne (Edward) McDermott of Downingtown, Thomas (Reeta) Stern of Glenmoore, and William (Dina) Stern of West Chester; grandchildren (and spouses): Edward (Kristan) McDermott III, John (Kristen) McDermott, Megan (Jonathan) Caulder, Tara (Daniel) Moore, Randi (Cameron) Martin, Matthew (Maggie) Stern, Antonia (Andrew) Purse, Christina Stern, and Alexandra Stern; and eleven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband; and siblings William Francis Butler, and infants Dolores, John, and Jimmy Butler. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, September 27th at St. Joseph Church, 338 Manor Ave., Downingtown, where family and friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. Interment will be in St. Cecilia Cemetery, Coatesville. In lieu of flowers contributions can be sent to Tel Hai Care Assurance Fund, P.O. Box 190, Honey Brook, PA 19344. Arrangements are being handled by the James J. Terry Funeral Home, Downingtown. To send online condolences, visit www.jamesterryfuneralhome.com.