Dorothy Jean Rugar

Dorothy Jean (McNamara) Rugar, age 83, of Midland, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Dorothy was born on August 14, 1941, in Huntington, Indiana, to Edna and Vincent McNamara. She grew up in Ithaca, Michigan, alongside her sisters Margaret (Peg), Jackie, and Sally (Ann). A proud graduate of Ithaca High School, she went on to earn her degree in education from Central Michigan University.
Dorothy dedicated her life to education, teaching fifth grade science at Longview Elementary and English in schools across the country. She was a passionate educator, deeply proud of her work, and remembered by many students as their favorite teacher. Later, she continued her public service by working for the State of Michigan until her retirement.
She married Robert E. Rugar, and together they built a life full of love, warmth, and family. Dorothy was the proud mother of one daughter, Lori, and a devoted grandmother to Travis and Caitlin (Kaity), who were the light of her life. She also embraced and supported her adopted grandson, Isaac Jones, guiding and encouraging him through his adult life with the same love and pride.
Dorothy loved to cook and was happiest when her house was full. She was known for her legendary Sunday dinners-welcoming anyone to her table, where laughter was loud, hearts were full, and dinner rolls were lovingly tossed across the dining room. Her home was a haven of comfort and connection.
She had a special fondness for otters, delighting in their playful spirit and keeping a small collection of otter figurines and gifts from those who knew how much she adored them.
Dorothy is survived by her sister Sally (Ann) McNamara; her daughter Lori Arthur and son-in-law Kevin Arthur; her grandchildren Travis Arthur (Olivia), Caitlin Shattuck (Russ), and Isaac Jones; her great-grandson Wyatt Shattuck; and her great-niece Ashley Spann, who helped care for her with love and dedication in her later years.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; her sisters, Jackie and Peg; and her parents, Edna and Vincent.
To honor Dorothy's memory, donations may be made to the Toni and Trish House in Auburn, Michigan.
All of us at Ware Smith Woolever are honored the Rugar family has entrusted us with the care of their loved one.