Dorothy R. Hibbert, 88, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, March 27, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on September 30, 1936, in Lowell, Dorothy was the daughter of the late Jake and Marie (Furtado) Balakin. A lifelong resident of Lowell, she was educated in local schools and remained deeply connected to her community.
Dorothy found joy in life’s simple pleasures—she loved cooking for her family, spending time at the beach, and trying her luck at the casino. Above all, she cherished the time she spent with her loved ones, especially as Vovo to her grandchildren. She was a devoted communicant of Saint Anthony’s Church, where her faith was a guiding force in her life.
Dorothy is survived by her two sons, David Hibbert and his wife Katie of Shrewsbury, and Michael Hibbert of Lowell; her beloved grandchildren, Jaxson and Ayden Hibbert of Shrewsbury; her brothers, Robert “Sudsy” Balakin and his wife Pauline of Lowell, and Paul Balakin of Dracut; and her sister-in-law, Doris Balakin of Lowell.
She was predeceased by her siblings, Joan Carlson and her husband Raymond, James Balakin and his wife Claire, Richard Balakin, and her sister-in-law, the late Julie Balakin.
Dorothy’s warmth, generosity, and love for her family will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
You are invited to Her Calling Hours from 4p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursday April 3, 2025. On Friday, Her Funeral will begin at 9 a.m. at the McDONOUGH FUNERAL HOME, 14 HIGHLAND STREET, LOWELL (978 OR 800) 458-6816. Her Funeral Mass will be offered at ST. ANTHONY'S CHURCH at 10 a.m.. Burial in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial contributions in her memory may be made to The Special Olympics of Massachusetts.