Dorothea Frances Atallah

Dorothea Frances Atallah, of Crystal River, Florida, formerly of Westwood and Walpole, Massachusetts, finally rested on September 3, 2024, after 94 energetic years of tending children, orchids, and traveling the world.

Dorothea was born on February 19, 1930, in Easton, Pennsylvania, to John and Helen Shoffner. She was predeceased by her older brother, John Shoffner; first husband, Sami Atallah; beloved son, Ameer; "the love of her life" N. Bruce Hanes (whom she married at the young age of 75); and stepson, N. Bruce "Butch" Hanes Jr.

After graduating from Moravian College for Women in Bethlehem, PA, with a Bachelor of Science, Dorothea worked as a Medical Technologist in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. In retirement, she was active with the senior centers of Walpole and Norwood, MA, as well as Citrus County, FL, where she formed many deep and supportive friendships. Dorothea played the piano into her 90s and took great care with the composition of her annual Christmas newsletter, which always included photos. She especially enjoyed nurturing her beautiful orchids while watching manatees and sunsets from her porch overlooking the Crystal River.

She is mourned by her daughters: Lameece (Patrick) Gregorchik, Nadia (Kevin) Innes, and Mona (John) Johnson; also by her stepfamily: Cherie Baughman, Vicki Siarnacki, Thomas Hanes, and Gregory Hanes. Dorothea's close relationship with her brother's children, Chris and John Shoffner, brought her much joy, as did the accomplishments of numerous other nieces and nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and grand-dogs.

Burial will be in the New Westwood Cemetery, Westwood, MA, next to her son, Ameer. She requested there be no service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your charity of choice.