Dr. Dorothy Martin Simon

Dr. Dorothy Martin Simon

Pittsboro

Dorothy Martin Simon, age 96, passed away March 25, 2016 at Galloway Ridge, Pittsboro N.C, where she was a resident for many years. She was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Sidney L. Simon, and brother Robert William Martin.

Dr. Simon was born in Springfield MO, where her father, Dr. R.W. Martin was head of the Science Department at Southwest MO, State University for many years. Her interest in chemistry was evident at an early age and following her graduation with highest honors. She achieved her PHD in physical chemistry from the University of Illinois. Her post doctoral studies were done at Cambridge University in England. Dr. Simon forged an illustrious career in a then male dominated field and was widely respected in science and technology circles.

Her early career in scientific research began at Dupont & Co where she helped develop the synthetic fiber Orlon. Moving to Oak Ridge National Laboratory she conducted research on triple fission and isolated a new isotope of Calcium. Later working at the Lewis Laboratory of NASA she acquired an international reputation for her research on combustion and she was invited to speak before NATO & European University groups.

From 1956 until her retirement in 1985, Dr. Simon was employed by the Avco Corporation and in 1968 she became the first woman corporate officer of the company when she was promoted to Vice President in charge of Research & Development. In this capacity she was responsible for guiding the research and development of such diverse areas as lasers, power generation, remote sensing and spacecraft re-entry. Projects involving engines for tanks and aircraft, were particularly important in the defense and aerospace fields. During her professional career Dr. Simon served on a number of advisory committees for government agencies and universities including the Department of Commerce, Department of Defense and the National Science Foundation. She was on the board of major American corporations. She was also a Trustee of Northeastern University and Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Many prestigious honors were awarded to Dr. Simon during her career. They included the Rockefeller Public Service Award and The Society of Women Engineers Achievement Award. In 1976 she was named by Businessweek as one of the top 100 corporate women in America. She received an honorary Doctor of Science degree from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (1971) and an honorary Doctor of Engineering degree from Lehigh University (1978). She has also been honored by the University of Illinois & the University of Missouri and was named an "Outstanding Alumnus" in 1958 by the SMSU Alumni Association.

In 2012 Dr. Simon was interviewed extensively by a NASA representative for the NASA Headquarters Oral History Project.

The many relatives and friends who loved Dorothy will remember her not only for her accomplishments, but for her kindness, her generosity, her wise counsel and high ethical and moral standards. She was a lovely, gracious lady who has had a great impact on our lives.

The family thanks the volunteers and caregivers of Galloway Ridge and Hospice who gave her care, company and solace in her final months. Her ashes will be interred with those of her husband in Springfield, MO.