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BORN
1950
DIED
2022
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Dorothy Forrest Obituary
Dot was born in Waterville, Maine on January 25, 1950, to Francis and Verna Gagnon. She moved to Pittsfield in 1967 from Portland, Maine and graduated from St. Joseph's High School in 1968, later receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in social work from Boston State College in 1973. She dedicated thirty-three years to preserving and reuniting families with the Berkshire County office of the Department of Children and Families.
A longtime member of the Springside Greenhouse Group, Dot loved her plants so much she became a Master Gardener in retirement, as well as volunteering at Habitat for Humanity, and taking care of her grandchildren. She loved music and to travel, spending lots of time in her home state of Maine, visiting her children and grandchildren, and traveling internationally. Her love of food and cooking influenced her travels.
Dot is survived by her children, Kathleen, Allison, and John-Michael, their father John P. Forrest, and her grandchildren Justin, Carter, Jack, Shyanne, and Takki, as well as her brother F. Scott Gagnon and her sister Barbara Gagnon DiPietro. She was predeceased by her parents, sister Carol, and brother Eric.
The center of the family, Mom called it like she saw it and didn't put up with any nonsense. She found joy in taking care of her family, and her presence and generosity will be deeply missed.
Funeral Notice:
Calling hours for Dorothy will be Thursday, February 10, 2022, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 pm at the Dwyer Funeral Home, 776 North Street, Pittsfield MA 01201. Due to the recent rise in Covid cases, to best ensure everybody's health, all who attend are required to wear face masks. A Celebration of Dot's Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Springside Greenhouse Group, the Western Massachusetts Master Gardeners Association, or the Elizabeth Freeman Center, in care of the Dwyer Funeral Home. Please visit www.dwyerfuneral.com to leave condolences and remembrances.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dorothy Forrest
Sponsored by The Berkshire Eagle.
Ben & Beth Tobin
February 17, 2022
We were so sorry to hear about Dot´s passing. It was so enjoyable to share a story and a laugh, that will be missed.
John and family, remember the good times and smile.
Cathy Marquis
February 11, 2022
John, so sorry to hear of Dottie´s passing. Our thoughts go out to you and your family.
Juraye Moran
February 10, 2022
Both Russ and I are so sorry to hear about the passing away. She was a wonderful neighbor and I can still remember the sound of her laughter even from across the street. My prayers go out to the whole family
David E Hinkell
February 9, 2022
So sorry to read of Dorothys' passing. My deepest sympathy to John and children.
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Kris (Barbalunga) Mackey
February 5, 2022
I had the pleasure of knowing Dot years ago at Taconic High School when she visited staff with her infant son, John. I got to hold little John, so adorable! Both Dot and Big John were devoted parents and adored their children. Dot also was a wonderful social worker and cared deeply about the welfare of the children in her trust and their parents, so that they could have healthy and happy lives. You never had to wonder what Dot was thinking because she would come right out and tell you! What a great laugh she had! She was a delight to be with. My condolences to John and the children, and to all who knew and loved her. With love and caring, Kris (Barbalunga) Mackey
John A. Bernardo
February 5, 2022
My condolences to the family. May the fond and loving memories be a comfort and always be with you.
Jennifer Mercier
February 3, 2022
Forever grateful and fortunate to have known Dot. She noticed and acknowledged my growth and when the time came advocated for reunification with my daughter. I will be forever grateful for her commit to a thankless career. 14 years later, my daughter and I are still together and stronger than ever. She a showed up, on time, every time! She returned countless phone calls and when I was ready, had my back! I will never, ever forget the difference She made in my life!
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