Dorothy Cote, 86, passed away on August 2, 2026, just one day after celebrating her 86th birthday. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose life was filled with faith, family, laughter, friendship, and adventure.
Born on August 1, 1940, in Massachusetts, Dorothy called many places home throughout her life, including Ohio; Santa Rosa, California; Danville, Newton, and Derry, New Hampshire; La Vergne, Tennessee; and Florida. Wherever she went, Dorothy had a wonderful way of making friends and becoming part of the community around her.
Dorothy was truly a social butterfly. She loved being around people, sharing stories and laughter, and simply enjoying the company of others. She was funny, generous, and full of personality. Bingo was one of her favorite pastimes, and she spent many wonderful years cruising, traveling to new places, meeting new people, and making memories along the way.
Dorothy was also a woman of deep faith. Her love for God was an important part of her life, and she dearly loved her church and the many friends she made there. Her faith, church family, and fellowship brought her great joy and were a meaningful part of her life.
Above all, Dorothy loved her family. She was blessed with a large and loving family and treasured her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Dorothy is survived by her sons, John Mahoney and his wife, Lori, of North Carolina, and Fred Mahoney of Georgia; her stepchildren, Dianne, Dennis, and Suzanne; her sister, Mary; her brother, Tom; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, church friends, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 25 years, Wilford Cote; her stepchildren, Roxanne and Randy; and her brothers, Charles and Jim.
Dorothy will be remembered for her strong faith, generous heart, wonderful sense of humor, and outgoing spirit. Whether she was at church, playing bingo, setting off on another cruise, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a conversation with friends, Dorothy brought laughter and life wherever she went.
She leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, friendships, and memories that will continue to be shared by the many people who loved her. Dorothy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A service honoring Dorothy’s life will be held on August 25, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Twin Palms Clubhouse in Florida.
