A photo of Jeff Monreal, owner and operator of Jeff Monreal Funeral Homes posing in a black suit with no background

Painesville Location

1000 Mentor Avenue Painesville, Ohio 44077

Willoughby Location

38001 Euclid Avenue Willoughby, Ohio 44094

Mentor Location

6330 Center Street Mentor, Ohio 44060

Dorothy E. Colwill (nee Smith)

01/05/1934 - 05/17/2023

A black and white portrait photo of Dorothy E. Colwill looking serenely off into the distance

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.

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6 Replies to “Dorothy E. Colwill (nee Smith)”

  1. Judy Martens Butler May 18, 2023 at 11:32 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss Bob.

    Reply

  2. Justin Hurtis May 19, 2023 at 2:08 am

    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

    Reply

  3. 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.

    Reply

  4. Kelley and Alan Gray May 20, 2023 at 12:33 pm

    So sorry for your loss, Kate. What a lovely obituary.

    Reply

  5. Aunt Dorothy is a gem♥️

    Reply

  6. Sorry for your loss!

    Reply

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