Dorothy (Graveline) Duquette

Dorothy Irene (Graveline) Duquette, 99, of Easthampton, MA, entered peacefully into eternal rest at home, in the company of her loved ones, on Aug. 9, 2024.

The daughter of Exilia (Paquin) and Albert N. Graveline, she was the youngest of five children and grew up in Indian Orchard with her brothers: A. Edward, Wilfred, Norman, and Henry.

Dorothy had a lifelong love of music, especially opera. She played piano with expert technique, despite not having learned to read music, and she was known for her pitch-perfect alto singing voice. She also had an innate gift for photography, leading her to be the official photographer for the Graveline Family Genealogical Association and the de facto photographer for countless events.

Upon graduating from Cathedral High School in Springfield, she worked in Accounts Payable/Receivable. She held jobs at Chapman Valve, Bond Bread, and The U.S. Armory.

In 1949, Dorothy joined the Sisters of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin (SASV) in Canada. She returned home five months later to care for her father after her mother’s sudden passing.

Dorothy participated in leagues for candlepin bowling and horseshoes, and she enjoyed horseback riding. She studied ballet, tap, and jazz. In February 1957, she married Donald G. Duquette (1931-2012). They moved to Chicopee where they raised their daughter.

Dorothy set an example of Christian charity through her involvement with the Daughters of Isabella, the Maryknoll Sisters, the Heart Association, the American Cancer Society, and others. As a communicant of St. George Church in Chicopee, MA, she sang in the choir in the 1960s, and she volunteered for parish functions throughout the years.

After her daughter grew up, Dorothy offered her assistance to nieces who had babies or small children. In the 1990s, she regularly cared for her two grandsons, taking them to candlepin bowling, the park, the library, and more.

Dorothy owned several dogs and cats over the years, and this love of animals was a common thread with her dearest friends. In 2020, Dorothy adopted a deaf cat, who constantly remained near her.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Theresa and Daniel Peloquin, and grandsons Ryan and Kyle Peloquin. Dorothy was predeceased by her parents and four brothers. She also was a loving Aunt, Great Aunt, and Great Great Aunt. She leaves behind numerous friends, most notably an honorary family Aunt “Tante” Thérèse Côté of Chicopee, who had been Dorothy’s friend for 75 years. Dorothy also dearly loved her daughter’s and grandsons’ friends.

The family sends deepest thanks to Greater Springfield Senior Services, Inc., and to the Home Hospice Nurses and Home Aides who made it possible for Dorothy to be at home for the end of her earthly journey.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Dorothy Duquette to Dakin Humane Society or Greater Springfield Senior Services, Inc., or  Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice.

A Memorial Service will be Saturday, Aug. 24, at 11:30 a.m. at Mitchell Funeral Home at 15 Park Street, Easthampton, MA. A Celebration of Life reception will follow at 12:30 in Easthampton. A graveside service will be held at a later date for immediate family.

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