Dorothy Duckworth

1926 ~ 2012

Dorothy Ellen (Spec) Holmes Duckworth, 85, passed away Sunday May 13, 2012, Mother’s Day, peacefully enduring to the end with her family around her. It was a sweet blessing knowing that our Heavenly Father was waiting for her with open arms along with her patiently waiting husband, little daughter and grandson.

Dorothy was born to the late Sevea Victoria Bergsjo and Harold James Holmes on June 18, 1926, in Salt Lake City, Utah. She graduated from South High School in 1943. She fell in love with our dad Raymond B. Duckworth after he served in WWII in the Pacific and had returned from a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Brazil. This group of Brazilian missionaries met often and continued their friendships throughout their lives.

Ray and Dorothy were married September 3, 1946 in the Salt Lake Temple. Mom enjoyed working at the telephone company and modeling for several years. After raising her children, she worked many years at Bonneville Jr. in the Granite District as a Counseling Secretary. Where she learned her children weren’t that bad after-all! Mom challenged herself to develop her skills and talents. She was always pursuing activities that enhanced her intelligence and abilities.

Dorothy was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully in many ward and stake positions. She involved herself in serving others not only in church but also as PTA president and other positions within the community. After dad retired they enjoyed many family activities, traveling together and meeting other people, introducing the gospel through their example and spirit for life. They especially enjoyed their Grandchildren and were dedicated to keeping their family together - forever.

Dorothy was survived by her five children Steve (Linda), Doug (Diane), Brad (Marianne), Michele (Scott) Van Leeuwen, Tracy (Lori); 20 Grandchildren; 27 Great-grand Children. She was preceded in death by her Parents, loving Husband Ray, sweet Daughter Denise and cherished grandson Darren.

Her family expresses their heartfelt gratitude for her Doctors, Nurses, friends and neighbors who touched her life, especially in her final hours.