Dorothy Marie “Dottie” (Lynch) O’Donnell passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on June 10th, 2026.
Dottie was the beloved wife of John “Jack” O’Donnell, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter and devotion. Born and raised in Charlestown she was the cherished daughter of William and Anna (Kelly) Lynch.
In May of 1971, Dottie married the love of her life Jack. Together they raised their daughters in Malden, creating a welcoming home filled with laughter and love. Although she spent many years in Malden, her heart remained in Charlestown where she frequently visited family and lifelong friends.
Dottie was predeceased by her sisters Patricia Hayes and Catherine Sweeney and her brothers John “Jack” Lynch, William “Billy” Lynch and Francis "Whimpy” Lynch she is survived by her brother Gerald “Jerry” Lynch.
A woman of Boundless energy and Enthusiasm, Dottie was actively involved in her community
She was the proud member of the Irish American Women’s Auxiliary, The Immaculate Conception Parents Advisory Board and several cherished card group.
Following her retirement from the Emergency Department at Malden Hospital, she and Jack spent their winters in Naples, Florida where they built many treasured friendships. There Dottie enjoyed playing Tennis, Bocce, pickleball and of course cards embracing every opportunity to stay active and connected with those she loved.
Dottie was blessed with a large circle of family and friends, all of whom were touched by her warmness and kindness and vibrant spirit.
She was the devoted mother of Colleen and Joseph Lavorato and Kerri and David Glinner of Wilmington. Her greatest joy was being Nana to Delaney, Kyle and Jake GlInner and Ryan and Chloe Lavorato. She also leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews and extended family and friends who will miss her deeply.
Dottie will be remembered by her unwavering love of family, her gift for friendship, her infectious smile and the ability to make everyone feel welcome. Her legacy of love, strength and kindness will live on with all who knew her.
Dottie's greatest gift was the love she shared so freely whether around a pickleball court, card table or sitting with family and friends having tea and listening to Irish music. She brought laughter, kindness and sense of belonging wherever she went. She was full of classic one liners including, "I'm with ya (during cards), what I'm talking about is (when telling a story) and "You're right. (instead of engaging in a debate).
She was a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, proud sister and aunt and a loyal friend. She leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of love that will live on for generations.
When Dottie’s health began to decline, she was surrounded by the love of her family. We are especially grateful for her daughter Kerri and son-in-law Joe for their tireless dedication, gentle care and unconditional love which brought her comfort and peace.
In lieu of flowers Dottie’s family asks that on June 20th family and friends honor her memory by performing an act of kindness for someone in need. Whether it’s a kind word, a simple gesture of compassion may it be done in the spirit of generosity, warmth and love that Dottie shared so freely throughout her life.
“The light of a mothers love shines forever in her children and grandchildren”
Relatives & friends are invited to attend her funeral service at the Breslin Funeral Home, 610 Pleasant St., Malden on Wednesday June 17th at 11 AM followed by interment in Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett. Visitation will be held prior to the service on Wednesday from 9-11 AM.