Dorothy “Dottie” Jane Satherlie, a woman whose life spanned over a century of profound change and even more profound service, passed away peacefully at her home on Jan. 29, 2026. At 102 years old, Dottie leaves behind a legacy defined by her unwavering commitment to education, her deep-rooted faith, and a family that stretches across generations. Born in Haddonfield, New Jersey, on Oct. 2, 1923, Dottie was the daughter of Earl and Florence Young. Her journey into education began at Glassboro State College (now called Rowan University), where she earned the teaching certification that would become the foundation of her life’s work.

In 1952, Dottie and her beloved husband, Kenneth, moved to Norfolk with a vision that would transform the community. Together, they founded The Laurel School, a residential school dedicated to children with special needs. For more than three decades, Dottie served as both principal and teacher, pouring her heart into the well-being and development of her students until her retirement in 1984. Her impact was so significant that, upon the school’s closing, the Norfolk Connecticut Children’s Foundation was established to ensure her mission of supporting local youth would continue in perpetuity.

Dottie’s spirit was perhaps most visible at the Church of Christ Congregational in Norfolk. Whether she was serving as a Deacon, teaching Sunday School, or singing in the choir, her presence was a constant source of joy. Her decades of devotion were honored with the title of Life Steward, a testament to her enduring role as a pillar of her congregation.

Above all, Dottie was the matriarch of an expansive and loving family. Though she was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth; her daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Jimmy Davidson; her sister, Mil; and brother, Earle; her memory lives on through her four children: Dean Satherlie, Lynn Deasy (Tim), Kurt Satherlie (Jennifer), and Lisa McClave (Duncan). She was a proud grandmother to 13 and a great-grandmother to 18, with a 19th great-grandchild expected to arrive this July-the next gift to a family tree she nurtured for over a century. In keeping with Dottie’s love for the changing seasons, a memorial service will be held this spring at the Church of Christ Congreg-tional in Norfolk. Details will be shared via the church newsletter and social media. Dottie will be laid to rest privately in the Norfolk Center Cemetery.

The family requests that those wishing to honor her life consider a contribution to the Norfolk Connecticut Children’s Foundation (P.O. Box 322, Norfolk, CT 06058), ensuring that Dottie’s lifelong commitment to the children of Norfolk continues to flourish. Arrangements are under the care of the Carmon Funeral Home & Family Center of Avon.