Dorothy "Dotti" J. Ferris

Dorothy J. Ferris—age 98—passed away peacefully at home in Boynton Beach, FL, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on August 25, 1927, in Massillon, OH, Dotti lived a life defined by warmth, independence, resilience, positivity, and an enduring sense of adventure. In 1965, she married Daniel R. Ferris and they nurtured a mutually supportive, rich partnership until his passing in 2020.

Travel was one of Dotti’s great passions and a defining feature of her life. Over her lifetime, she explored more than 100 countries and continued traveling until the age of 98. One of her most remarkable adventures was a six-month journey driving the family minivan on the Pan-American Highway from Cleveland, OH through Central and South America in 1975. With her four children in tow and Dan flying to meet them as his work schedule allowed, it was an extraordinary undertaking that reflected her courage, openness, and optimism. She made the world her home, even at a time when telegrams were the primary means of coordinating travel plans. She formed friendships everywhere she went and immersed herself deeply in local cultures.

Having never met a stranger, she would often invite people she had just met to gatherings or celebrations, convinced—usually correctly—that they would become friends. She learned to play cards with her family as a young child and played for 90+ years right up until the day before she passed. She particularly enjoyed social games such as Hand & Foot and was a devoted member of a Bridge group, although she was also known to enjoy a round of Solitaire if no other players were available.

From an early age, Dotti demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit and eagerness to try new things. Over the years she explored modeling, automobile sales, and antique dealing. She once imported an entire shipping container of antiques from England, only comprehending the capacity of a full container upon its arrival. As was her wont, she turned mishap into opportunity, opened Attic Treasures in Mentor, and used the container to stock the shop.

Dotti found her professional calling in real estate. She earned her real estate license in 1976 and practiced for more than 20 years, primarily with Smythe Cramer in Mentor, OH. From the late 1970s through the early 1990s, she was consistently recognized as one of the top-producing real estate agents in Lake County, OH. Known for her work ethic, confidence, and natural rapport with people, Dotti retired from real estate in the early 1990s.

Equally important to Dotti was her engagement with community life. She remained socially engaged throughout her life and was known for welcoming others easily and generously. She was actively involved in her children’s schools, church committees, and a range of civic and professional organizations. She and her family opened their home to host AFS exchange students from Austria and Argentina, visiting international professionals through the CIP program, and economically challenged youth.

After relocating to Florida full-time in the early 1990s, she became involved with the Mayflower Society and Daughters of the American Revolution, serving as president of her local chapter. Dotti was considered the matriarch of her Bible Study group, which she enjoyed and attended regularly. She was an avid reader, visiting the Boynton Beach Library at least once a week to exchange a massive pile of books.

Dotti was a devoted sports fan, especially following football with enthusiasm. She was a lifelong supporter of the Cleveland Browns and Ohio State football. She and her husband Dan were enthusiastic tailgaters, a tradition they embraced with style and humor over many years.

Dorothy is survived by her four children: her sons Richard (Rick) Ferris and Michael (Mike) Ferris, and her daughters Pam O’Bryant and Victoria (Tory) Miller; as well as 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a constant source of pride and joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gilbert Carl Hagberg and Viola Mae Leonard, and by her husband of 54 years, Daniel (Dan) R. Ferris.

Services will be announced on this page when confirmed.

Dorothy will be remembered for her independence, warmth, adventure, and the extraordinary breadth of life she embraced—always curious, always welcoming, and always ready for the next journey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Friends of the Boynton Beach City Library in Boynton Beach, Florida (https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/592276356?donateNow=true).