Worcester: Dorothy L. (Freeland) Hughes, 85, passed away at Dodge Park Rest Home on Thursday, October 25, 2018 surrounded by her loving family.
Dorothy was born in Southbridge, daughter of the late Sebastian and Gladys (Walters) Freeland. She leaves 2 sons- Donald Hughes, and his wife, Linda, of Petersham, and Robert Hughes of Worcester; 2 daughters- Deborah Dugan, and her husband, Al, of Winchendon, and Cheryl DiBenedetto, and her significant other, Brian Fontaine, of Worcester; 11 grandchildren- Greame and Shawn O’Dou, Serena Zumpano, Jamie and Al Dugan III, Robert DiBenedetto, Sheena Petukhov, Corey, Justin, and Edward “E.J.” Hughes; 14 great grandchildren; a son-in-law Gary Murray; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Hughie E. Hughes; 2 sons- Ronald and Edward Hughes, a daughter Carol Murray, a daughter-in-law Judith Hughes, a granddaughter- Jennifer Murray, and by her 4 beloved siblings, of whom she was the youngest.
Dorothy was a proud homemaker, devoting her life to caring for her children, and grandchildren. She was happiest when in the company of, and surrounded by, her large family. Dorothy loved to sing; she had a truly beautiful voice. During holiday celebrations at the Swedish American Club, Dorothy could be found on stage, at the center of everyone’s attention, singing away. She also enjoyed playing pitch, and in her younger years, bowling.
The family has decided against traditional calling hours, and a formal funeral service. In place of, a “celebration of life” will be held at 3 pm, on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at Barber’s Crossing North, 175 Leominster Road, Sterling, MA 01564.
To honor her son, the late Worcester Police Officer, Officer Edward T. Hughes, donations can be made in Dorothy's name to the Officers Down Memorial Page, ODMP. To leave an online condolence message, please visit Nordgrenmemorialchapel.com.