Obituary of Dorothy M. Macdonald

Dorothy M. Macdonald, a longtime resident of Burlington, peacefully passed away at her home surrounded by her family on Wednesday October 2, 2024.  She was 89 years old.  Dorothy was born in Boston and was one of three children born to Nova Scotian immigrants, William and Anna Chisholm.  She grew up in Dorchester and was a graduate of St. Gergory’s High School.  She would later earn her Bachelor of Science degree in business from Northeastern University.  She worked until having children and then remained home during her children’s developmental years before returning to the work force.  She spent 19 years working as a financial analyst at the MITRE Corporation. 

Dorothy and her husband Bob were both very active in local, state, and national politics.  She worked on her first political campaign in her early 20’s and continued supporting her candidates right up until her passing.  She served as a delegate in presidential elections and was past chairman of the Burlington Republican Town Committee. 

Dorothy was very active in the community as well.  She was part of Burlington schools Bridges program which invited seniors to class once a week to share about a wide variety of topics and experiences.  The program’s goal was to bridge the generation gap.  She volunteered at the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center for 25 years enjoying the opportunity to interact with and give back to her community. 

Dorothy was someone who had a zest for life which included travel.  After high school, she and a friend spent a summer traveling across Europe.  After retirement Dorothy and Bob traveled extensively visiting all seven continents.  She had numerous circles of friends whom she kept close with.  She loved to entertain as well and was extremely independent.  She cared about everyone and was always there to support and lend a helping hand.   She had an amazing memory and a quick wit. Dorothy was an enthusiastic gardener and loved relaxing on the porch while watching and feeding the birds.   She loved being “Nana” to her 9 grandchildren.  She was so proud of each one.  She was always on the sidelines, in the stands, or in the audience at all their sporting, school, plays, and activities right up until last year.  Dorothy lived her life following her passions, sharing her gifts, and loving her family with all her heart.  She will be lovingly remembered by all.

Dorothy was the beloved wife of 50 years of the late Robert J. Macdonald.  She was the loving mother of Robert J. Macdonald, Jr. and his wife Kathy of Tewksbury, Christine Raymond of Bothell, WA, and Douglas Macdonald and his wife Robin of Wilmington.  She was the proud grandmother of Kaitlin, Kassidy, Katrina, and Kristen Macdonald, Kenny, Allison, and Joanne Raymond, and Bianca and Andrew Macdonald.   She was the sister of Constance Churchill of Manomet and her late husband Harry, and the late Alice Schmitz and her surviving husband Hank of Ft. Pierce, FL.  She was also survived by many dear nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. 

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., Burlington on Sunday, October 6^th from 3 pm – 6 pm.  Funeral from the Sullivan Funeral Home on Monday, October 7^th at 9 am.  A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St. Margaret’s Church in St. Veronica Parish, 111 Winn St., Burlington at 10 am.  The burial will immediately follow in Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Beth Israel Lahey Health at Home at https://bilhathome.org/giving. For full guestbook and video tribute please visit www.sullivanfuneralhome.net