Dorothy Colton

1930 - 2025

Dorothy (Dot, Dottie, Nana), 95, born September 25, 1930, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, passed away, surrounded by family, on November 11, 2025, in central Florida. She was predeceased by her parents, James and Effie Catherwood, and her sister, Ruth Catherwood Sullivan.

Dot previously resided in State College, PA, for forty nine years.

A graduate of West Deer High School and Slippery Rock University, she worked as a health and physical education teacher before transitioning to a property management career.

Tennis and gardening were two of Dot's passions. In tennis, she was a Senior Olympics champion and a Penn State University instructor. To honor the Nittany Lions, she used a blue and white color combination in her garden. She visited many arboretums and gardens and pulled weeds everywhere as a habit of her farm girl upbringing.

A lifetime volunteer, Dot was involved with Garden Club, Juniper Village, Mount Nittany Medical Center Auxiliary and Special Olympics. She served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher at the State College Presbyterian church.

Her outgoing nature and positive spirit brought many people close to her and she cherished these friendships. She loved to host gatherings for family and friends.

She is survived by her spouse, Dave, of 71 years, and five children: Autumn Colton (Sam Haines) of Mercer, PA, Janie Colton (Rick Sulier) of Tecumseh, MI, Bobbi Hosmer (Jeff Hosmer) of Lady Lake, FL, Jim Colton (Lisa Furey) of Okatie, SC, and Matt Colton of San Antonio, TX.

Nana was devoted to, and will be missed by nine grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held in State College in the spring of 2026. In Dot's memory, contributions may be made to the State College Presbyterian church garden fund.