Obituary for Nana

Nana was the heart and foundation of her family—a woman whose love was steady, comforting, and deeply felt by everyone who knew her. She had a rare gift for making people feel safe, cared for, and at home, no matter where they came from or what burdens they carried. To be with Nana was to be surrounded by warmth, tradition, laughter, and unconditional love.

Nana was known for her cooking, especially the stuffing that defined holidays and became family legend. Her rice with peppers and onions was simple, perfect, and unforgettable. Through cooking and baking, Nana taught her family that food is love—that gathering people around a table is one of the most genuine ways to care for them. She passed down not just recipes, but a way of nurturing others that will live on for generations.

Her care extended far beyond the kitchen. Nana believed in comfort, rest, and sometimes bending the rules when love required it. If a grandchild called Nana while “sick,” there was always a chance of being lovingly broken out from school for a day of rest and reassurance. Time with Nana was its own kind of medicine.

Family stories often captured her humor and humility, including legendary early baking attempts that became cherished jokes over the years. Nana laughed at herself, grew with grace, and eventually perfected the recipes that her family treasures today.

Nana’s homes—from the beach condo, to the Carruth Street house, to the beautiful home she later built—were sanctuaries. They were places of celebration, healing, rest, and togetherness. Sleepovers at Nana’s were a childhood luxury, marked by soft linens, careful details, and the deep peace that comes from feeling completely safe.

She took immense pride in watching her sons grow into men and build full lives of their own. Nana shared an especially close bond with her son John, who was a constant presence in her life and a devoted, loving son. John showed his love in quiet, steady ways—through his time, his patience, and his unwavering care. He made sure Nana was always supported, comfortable, and surrounded by love. Their relationship was rooted in deep respect, trust, and family devotion, and Nana took immense pride in John and the man he is. The kindness and loyalty he showed her were a reflection of the values she instilled in him from a young age. She was a devoted mother, a loving grandmother, and a proud great-grandmother to three beautiful great-granddaughters who will carry forward her strength, warmth, and love.

Nana had a quiet way of making people feel seen. She never rushed anyone or demanded attention—she simply welcomed you in. Her love was dependable, calm, and unwavering, and it will be deeply missed.

Nana’s legacy lives on through family traditions, shared meals, cherished recipes, and the love she so freely gave. She will be remembered every time her family gathers around a table, laughs together, or takes care of one another the way she always did.

She was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words.

Dorothy is survived by her son, Joseph Howlett Jr., and his wife, Donna Howlett; her son, John Howlett; her grandson, Joseph Howlett III, and his fiancée, Jamie Folan; her granddaughter, Jessica Howlett, and her significant other, Kev; and her three beautiful great-granddaughters, SpencerMae, Holly, and Brooke who made her world light up any time she learned of their antics and enjoyed them with all her heart.

Funeral arrangements will be private.

In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Dorothy may be made to The Pat Roche Hospice House Scholarship (to assist other families with their costs for hospice), 120 Longwater Drive, Norwell, MA 02061 ~ https://www.croihealth.org/services/pat-roche-hospice-home/.