Dorothy L. Widenor

Dorothy Louise “Dot” Widenor of Centreville, MD, died at Queen Anne’s Hospice House in Centreville on October 10, 2008. She was 85. Born October 1, 1923, in Emlenton, Pennsylvania, the youngest of four children of the late Benton Mosser Roschy and Estella Gertrude Summerson Roschy; she was their only daughter. After graduating from Emlenton High School, Dorothy attended Westminster Choir College on scholarship. Following college, she studied opera in New York City. Using her talents, she went on to sing in and direct many church choirs, children’s choirs, hand bell choirs, and served as music director of several churches. Her working life was short as she devoted her time to raising her children and the many community and volunteer programs she pursued which included being a Teachers Aide at the elementary school. She was always willing to learn new things and ready to say yes if asked. This included interests in sailing, chair caning, needlework, and Red Cross lifesaving training. Dorothy was a devoted wife to her husband of 45 years, the late Paul E. Widenor, Jr., who died June 20, 2007. They spent the past 20 years ministering together with the Gideon’s. She was a member of the Gideon’s Women’s Auxiliary – serving with the Sussex DE Camp, Queen Anne’s West Camp, Baltimore East Camp, and the Accomack VA camp. She and Paul served in many churches as well, most recently New Life Bible Fellowship Church in Long Neck, Delaware; Kent Island United Methodist Church in Chester, MD; and Cape St. Claire United Methodist Church in Annapolis, MD. Her life was a testimony of her love of music and her love for her Lord. She was a blessing to many in the several states in which she and Paul lived. With her involvement in Vacation Bible School programs, children’s musicals, bible studies, Christian Women’s Club and the many churches over the years, Dorothy touched all who knew her. Mrs. Widenor is survived by three daughters, Linda L. Preston of Lacey, WA, Marlys E. Dickerson of Centreville, MD, and Sandra J. Widenor of Queenstown, MD; seven grandchildren, Kendall D. Mason, Jenna L. Mason, Christopher M. Preston, Paul A. Nantel, Desra M. Dickerson, Whitney L. Bambary, Brandon A. Bambary; and three great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Peter E. Nantel, and three brothers, Robert W. Roschy, George F. Roschy, and William A. Roschy. Services will be held privately. Condolences, inspired remembrances, or anecdotes may be sent to the family of Dot Widenor at 205 Stanford Road, Centreville, MD 21617. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hospice of Queen Anne’s Inc., 255 Comet Dr., Centreville, MD 21617. Arrangements by Fellows, Helfenbein and Newnam Funeral Home Centreville, MD.

Dorothy L. Widenor

October 1, 1923 - October 10, 2008