Obituary of Dorothy M. Fitzgerald

DOROTHY MATTHEWS FITZGERALD Loudonville- Dorothy Matthews Fitzgerald, passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2009 at Teresian House after a lengthy illness with the diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma. Born on April 1, 1932, she was the daughter of the late William F. and Mary A. (McGrath) Matthews. Dorothy graduated from Hudson Falls High School and was a graduate of the College of St. Rose with a degree in nursing. During her professional career, Dorothy held the positions of Supervisor of the Obstetrics Unit at Glens Falls Hospital, Clinical Instructor of Nursing at St. Peter's School of Nursing, Director of Nursing at Teresian House, Director of Services at Empire Blue Cross and a beloved Staff Nurse at the Center for Disability Services. Dorothy was truly committed to the highest ideals of the nursing profession, especially to those with the greatest need, with a great love for the disabled. She always considered the staff when decisions were made to ensure they would also benefit. She is survived by her husband: Gerald B. Fitzgerald; her son James W. Fitzgerald & daughter Anne Fitzgerald Napolitano. Her great love was for her 3 grandchildren Mary Beth, Michael & Nicholas. She is also survived by her sister Marie Harris of TN. Dorothy was uncommonly devoted to her immediate and extended family, as well as her many close friends. She is predeceased by her 2 brothers: Thomas & Francis Matthews and her sister Rita Matthews. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday at 10:30 am at St. Pius X Church, 23 Crumitie Road, Loudonville where Dorothy's Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated by Rev. Michael Farano. Relatives and friends are invited and may call Wednesday from 5-7 pm at Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, Ltd., 149 Old Loudon Road, Latham, NY. In lieu of flowers Masses of Remembrance at St. Pius X Church as well as contributions to the Center for Disability Services and Teresian House in Dorothy's memory would be appreciated. For directions, information or to light a memory candle for the family please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com