Dorothy Elizabeth Pettit

It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the peaceful passing of Dorothy Rego Pettit, who left this earth from the comfort of her home on June 28, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on November 9, 1929, in the scenic coastal town of Newport, Rhode Island, Dorothy was the cherished daughter of Gabriel and Mary (Almeida) Rego. Her life was a testament to love, dedication, and community service, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Dorothy's life was deeply rooted in her family and her community. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, James A. Pettit, her parents, Gabriel and Mary, and her dear sister, Evelyn Spiratos.

She is survived by her devoted children: William A. Pettit and his wife Suzanne of Middletown, RI; Susan A. (Pettit) Chapdelaine of Sandwich, MA; and Karen A. (Pettit) Scorpio and her husband Michael of Dartmouth, MA. Dorothy's legacy lives on through her six cherished grandsons, Christopher Pettit, Andrew Pettit, Adam Chapdelaine, Matthew Chapdelaine, James Scorpio, and Jack Scorpio, as well as her five precious great-grandchildren, Leilah, Mackenzie, Pearl, Maci, and Roger. She is also survived by her loving sister, Mary Pedro of Middletown.

Dorothy's career spanned decades, beginning in her youth at the Middletown Town Hall and Packer Braman Insurance. However, it was her nearly 50-year tenure in payroll services at Newport Tent that truly showcased her dedication and meticulous nature. Her professional life was a reflection of her personal ethos: diligent, reliable, and full of warmth.

A devout parishioner at Jesus Saviour Church, Dorothy served on the parish council and was a long-standing member of the Rosary Sodality. Her faith and commitment to her community were further demonstrated through her involvement with Middletown's Board of Canvassers, where she served for many years, shaping the community she so dearly loved.

Dorothy's life will be celebrated with a Funeral Mass on July 6, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Jesus Saviour Church, located at 1 Vernon Avenue, Newport, RI 02840. Burial will take place at St Columba's Cemetery 465 Browns lane Middletown, RI. Family, friends, and community members are invited to join in remembering a life well-lived and a soul deeply loved.

Calling hours will be at Memorial Funeral home 375 Broadway, Newport RI on Sunday July 5 from 4-7pm.

In this time of remembrance, Dorothy's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and caregivers who provided exceptional care and compassion in her final year. Their kindness and dedication were a true blessing to Dorothy and her family.

Dorothy Rego Pettit was a beacon of love and strength to her family, a treasured friend, and a respected member of her community. Her legacy of kindness, faith, and service will endure in the hearts of all she touched. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with those she loved and missed.