Dorothy Ann (McCarthy) Petersen, 79, of Middleborough, died peacefully on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at her home surrounded by her family. She was the beloved wife of David P. Petersen who died in 1990.
Born in Boston on November 17, 1945, she was the daughter of the late Daniel J. and Dorothy (Donovan) McCarthy.
Dorothy was a resident of Middleborough for the past 4 years and formerly resided in Mendon. She grew up in Medway and graduated from Medway High School as well as hairdressing school.
She owned Dot’s Painting and Cleaning Co. for many years.
Dorothy enjoyed gardening and doing crafts. She also loved attending the exercise classes at the Rochester COA.
She is survived by her children Teresa Petersen of San Diego, California, Michelle Cote and her significant other Matt Kissinger of Webster, Kimberly Kallanian and her husband Jacques of Southbridge, David Petersen of Rochester, and her former daughter-in-law Jennifer Petersen.
Dorothy is also survived by seven grandchildren Jeremy, James, Catalena, Taylor, Carley, Emma and Anthony.
She also leaves behind two brothers Daniel “Buster” McCarthy of Bellingham and James McCarthy of Medway, one sister Patricia McCarthy of Surprise, Arizona, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Monday, October 20 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the Ginley Crowley Funeral Home, 3 Barber St. in Medway (ginleyfuneralhomes.com) followed by graveside services at St. Joseph Cemetery in Medway.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Rochester Council On Aging, 67 Dexter Lane, Rochester, MA 02770.