Dorothy E. Colwill (nee Smith), age 89 of Mentor on the Lake, peacefully passed away May 17th, 2023 at home surrounded by her family. She was born January 5th, 1934 in Dayton, Ohio to the late George and Margaret Smith.
My mom did not live for herself, not even once. She only lived for her children and Jesus. My goodness how my mom touched the lives of her friends. She was often described by her friends as living Saint. I can assure you they are correct. In 1968, my mom became a single mom raising 5 kids all by herself on the low income salary as a secretary. The ages of her children in 1968 was 12, 10, 7, 4 and 1. She is a devout Christian. She loved current events, following all 3 Cleveland sports teams. She absolutely loved reading and studying her Bible every day. She sprinkled large doses of love and wisdom on her grandchildren. She kept her lawn and garden beautiful taking care of Gods nature and earth. She was not a materialistic person and enjoyed the peace of a simple life.
Dorothy was the loving mother of Bob (Chrisley) Colwill, Jim (Char) Colwill, John (Paulette) Colwill, Chris (Jennifer) Colwill and Katie (Todd) Hannula; beloved grandmother of Chelcea Kephart, Calvin Colwill, Lisa Surmacz, James Colwill, John Colwill, Sara McKinstry, David Colwill, Anna Colwill, Joshua, Remiel and Caleb Colwill, Matt, Nate and Faith Hannula, Jonathon, Jewel, Makeda and Titus Hannula; dearest sister of Eleanor Gardner and the late Jim Smith, Margaret Mary, Virginia, Helen and Ruth.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 – 7:00 PM Sunday, May 21st, 2023 at McMahon Coyne Vitantonio Funeral Home, 6330 Center Street, Mentor. A funeral mass will be held at 9:30 AM Monday at St. John Vianney Church, 7575 Bellflower Rd., Mentor. Burial will follow at Mentor Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Jeff Monreal Funeral Services.
Reader interactions
6 Replies to “Dorothy E. Colwill (nee Smith)”
I’m so sorry for your loss Bob.
Carolyn and I share your grief and our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Find comfort in the beautiful memories and pray for her soul.
Love to you all
Justin and Carolyn
Dear Bob & Chrisley, So sorry to hear of the loss of Bob’s mother. She seems to have had great faith and strength, a real blessing to the children, and the many family members. Our deepest condolences to all. Love Betty & Bob McElligott.
So sorry for your loss, Kate. What a lovely obituary.
Aunt Dorothy is a gem♥️
Sorry for your loss!
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