Dorothy Cheney

Dorothy B. Cheney, 91, of Newark Valley, passed away on August 18, 2025. Dorothy, or ‘Dot’ as she was affectionately known by her family and friends, was born on March 4, 1934, a daughter of the late Everett and Theresa (Botting) Burroughs.

She is survived by her loving children: Norman Cheney, Christine Webber, and Jacqueline Schendel, her beloved grandchildren: Dustin, Katie, Jennifer, and Amy, along with her special great-grandchildren Nathan, Kyndra, Karson, Brian, and Aaron. She will be greatly missed by her sisters-in-law: Sarah Lou Booth, Linda (Pete) Schlichting, Florence Cheney, Barb Cheney, Nelda Cheney, and Jackie Burroughs, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Dot was predeceased by her husband Harold “Harry” L. Cheney, her son-in-law Brian Schendel, her brother Ronald Burroughs, her brothers-in-law: Merton ‘Bud’ (Lois) Cheney, William ‘Perry’ Cheney, Merrit Cheney, Arthur ‘Art’ Cheney and David (Esther) Cheney, Harry Booth, and her sisters-in-law: Trudy (Hugh) Fischer, Ruth (Dan) Ryan, and Mary Ann (Bill) Austin. Dot was also predeceased by her precious canine companion ‘Fur Babies’ Mitsy and Roofus.

Family was the cornerstone of Dorothy's world. She helped coordinate the annual family reunions, meticulously organizing the gatherings proudly keeping the over 80-year-long tradition going. Her dedication to preserving family history was evident in the carefully curated list of all family members, a testament to the importance she placed on each relative's place within the family tree.

Her commitment to her roots was further evident in her tireless efforts to coordinate class reunions for her high school alumni, the Marathon Graduating Class of 1951. Dorothy's gentle nature made her a natural at bringing people together, rekindling old friendships, and fostering a sense of community among her family and her former classmates.

As a beloved figure in the halls of Zion Lutheran School, where after her retirement, volunteered with a smile as the cafeteria clerk. Her gentle presence and nurturing spirit made her a cherished part of the school's family, earning her the cherished title of ‘Grandma Dot.’ Dorothy's commitment to her community shone brightly through her active involvement with the East Berkshire United Methodist Church's. Her passion for cooking was a gift she shared generously, particularly during the church's renowned spaghetti suppers. She took pride in crafting her meatballs and sauce from scratch, using a cherished recipe that delighted all who tasted it.

A service celebrating Dorothy's life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the MacPherson Funeral Home, 5 Whig Street, Newark Valley, NY 13811. A period of visitation will take place from 12:00, noon, until the time of service. Memories and condolences can be shared in her online guest book at www.macphersonfh.com. In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider a memorial contribution to Stray Haven Humane Society, 194 Shepard Road, Waverly, NY 14892 in loving memory of Dorothy Cheney.