Dorothy Ann Aicher

Dorothy (Dottie) Ann Aicher

Age 90 of Coal City, Illinois, formerly of Pitman and North Cape May, New Jersey, passed away peacefully, while her daughters held her hand, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at Lightways Hospice Care in Joliet, Illinois.

Born January 8, 1935 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Dorothy was the daughter of Roland and Elizabeth (White) Smith. She was raised and educated in Philadelphia and later Clementon, New Jersey. Dorothy relocated to Illinois and lived in the Chicago area for some time until returning to the east coast in Clementon. She worked as a supervisor and fundraising coordinator, providing Christmas baskets to families in need, for eighteen years with the Camden County Board of Social Services until she retired and settled in North Cape May. Dorothy relocated to Coal City, Illinois in 2022. 

Dorothy was an active woman who always took care of herself, and took great pleasure in roller skating. She had a group of friends that met nearly every Monday morning to skate, and she continued with this pastime until the age of 85. Dorothy also enjoyed playing bingo, most recently at the Braidwood American Legion, as well as trying her luck at casinos playing the slot machines. She was a strong, independent woman whose family and friends were the most important thing in her life. Dorothy was selfless, a true caregiver, whose natural compassion and kind spirit was undeniable. Of Catholic faith, she prayed each night for family and friends. Adored by her grandchildren, they affectionately called her Gramstar. She was the glue that held her family together, always needing to make sure that the people she loved knew that, "Everything is going to be okay."

Survivors include five children: Joseph (Maria) Barsuglia of Simi Valley, California, Frederic (Diane) Barsuglia of Clayton, New Jersey, Michael (Lis) Barsuglia of Harrisville, New York, Kathleen (the late Don) Goad of Braidwood, Illinois, and Lori Zelenka of Coal City, Illinois; four grandchildren: Frank Barsuglia (Cathy Schachtschneider), Tracy (Tim) Bernico, Joseph P. Barsuglia (Tricia Eastman), and Anna (André) LeComté; four great grandchildren: Korey Wren, Tinley Bernico, Gideon LeComté, and Hayzel LeComté; and nieces and nephews: Nancy (Jack) LeBano, Barry (Vicki) Stevens, Jeff (Kathy) Stevens, and Jeanne (Marty) Babos; and dear family friend, Jim Smrekar.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, and her beloved partner, Thomas Sandifer; one grandson, Christopher Simmons, and two sisters: Elizabeth Sandifer and Dolores (Ray) Stevens.

Per Dorothy's wishes, cremation rites are being accorded and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in North Cape May, New Jersey. 

The family requests any memorial contributions be made to Samaritan's Purse in lieu of flowers.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book, upload photographs, and share Dorothy's memorial page via social media.

Cremation services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Coal City, Illinois (815) 634-2125.