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Dorothy Maryott
05/30/2023

Dorothy Bispham Curtiss Maryott passed peacefully in May 30, 2023 surrounded by loved ones (for real this time). She is survived by her children, their spouses and grandchildren; Doug & Trish Maryott, Deborah & Erik McGaughey and their children Emily, Zach and Charlie.

 

Dottie (because you are only called by your given name when you are in trouble) was a woman before her time.  She is the niece of the world renowned author Ruth Plumley Thompson, who helped to raise her along with her single mother in the aftermath of the great depression. She survived botulism at a young age (not the kind you get by choice). Dottie received a four-year scholarship to University if Pennsylvania where she played varsity lacrosse and received an English Lit degree. She said she played the real lacrosse before they ruined the sport and went to college for the education not an MRS. Dottie worked in publishing with Ladies Home Journal. She was politically active and worked the polls. She met the love of her life at a Nixon campaign, the marriage worked out unlike his presidency.

 

She was crunchy before crunchy was cool, buying her organic groceries in the 70’s from a “natural grocer”, who also probably sold weed. She believed in saving the schools, animals and the environment. She was a woman of action marching for the schools, starting a recycling center in 1970s, saving trees on the banks of Crabby Creek and supporting Indigenous Americans; all with her two children in tow. Dottie believed in giving back to the community, and would often say if you don’t have money give time.

 

Dottie was a woman of faith, strong morals and resiliency. Her love of God gave her the strength to beat Stage IV cancer twice, and accidentally join a cult. She got out and the only thing that suffered was her checkbook (right Vinny?!).  She believed in doing God’s work and helping others. She taught some very important life lessons: be kind to the earth and it’s creatures; eat what God gave us and live healthy; trust is a gift and not easily regained so don’t lie; forgive and love freely because life is short.

 

In lieu of flowers, please support these worthwhile causes: Susan G. Komen® - Company : The Pink Ladies or Meals on Wheels of the Greater Lehigh Valley Donation Form