COTTER, Noreen L. (Fitzgerald) Of Dartmouth, formerly of Somerset, a woman of deep faith and gentle kindness, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on April 22, 1938, in Somerville, MA, she was the cherished daughter of the late Robert and Charlotte (Dzengeleski) Fitzgerald. Noreen was the beloved wife of the late Timothy J. Cotter; and a supportive sister who fondly remembered her late brother, Thomas Fitzgerald. She was also a dear niece to Edward Dzengeleski of Braintree; and is survived by many adoring cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and dear friends, who will forever treasure her memory.
Noreen's life was one marked by the warmth of enduring love. After completing her high school education, she embraced the role of homemaker and partner to her late husband. They shared a special bond that transcended his passing and she honored his memory for the rest of her life. Noreen was also a devoted daughter, caring for her mother with an unwavering dedication. She cherished her closest friends, neighbors and family members and was loved for being a good listener, offering words of wisdom or a quiet shoulder to lean on.
Her interests were simple yet deeply fulfilling. Beyond her home, Noreen was involved in her church, serving as a Eucharistic minister at St. Thomas More in Somerset for many years. She enjoyed trying new activities with her friends at the Somerset Council on Aging, including Tai Chi and therapeutic drumming. She looked forward to daily phone calls with her beloved cousin, Janice and frequent visits from her dear friends, Maria and Jeffrey.
Noreen's legacy is one of love and dignity. She will be remembered for the quiet strength that characterized her every action. Her life was a testament to the fact that the most profound impacts are often made not through grand gestures, but through the daily acts of kindness and care.
As we bid farewell to Noreen, we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the time we were privileged to share with her, and we take comfort in her loving reunion with her Tim. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide us, as we hold her close in our thoughts.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Visitation period on Tuesday, March 17, from 9:30 – 10:30 AM, in the Cartwright Funeral Home, 419 No. Main St., RANDOLPH. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, in St. Bernadette Church, 1031 No. Main St., Randolph. Burial will follow in the Blue Hill Cemetery, Braintree.
In lieu of flowers, Noreen's family asks that you consider making a donation to the Timothy J. Cotter Scholarship Fund, c/o Diocese of Fall River, 450 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720.
For directions or to leave a sympathy message for the family, visit
www.cartwrightfuneral.comPublished by Boston Globe from Mar. 13 to Mar. 15, 2026.