Dorothea Privitera

Dorothea Privitera, a beacon of light and love, has gracefully completed her earthly journey and entered into eternal rest on June 24, 2024, in the warm embrace of North Port, Florida. Born on September 23, 1928, in the heart of Hartford, Connecticut, she was a cherished soul who lived a life rich in faith, creativity, and gentleness.

Dorothea was a woman of remarkable talent and unwavering spirit. She studied at the Hilliard College of Art in Hartford, where she honed her skills and cultivated a lifelong passion for the arts. Her love of music and theater knew no bounds, and she dedicated much of her life to sharing this love with the world around her. As an entertainer with Fun with Music of Port Charlotte, she brought joy and laughter to many, and her voice, a melodious gift, was a staple in the choir at San Pedro Catholic Church.

Her commitment to her community was evident through her active involvement in the San Pedro Catholic Church, the Ladies Guild, the Elks Club, and the North Port Yacht Club. She was not just a member but a shining star, performing at the Port Charlotte Center and Dinner Theater, and gracing the stage as a vocalist for seven glorious years. Dorothea's creative spirit shone brightly as she wrote and directed five shows for the North Port Yacht Club, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witnessed her work.

During the shadows of the pandemic, Dorothea's artistry was once again on display, with a triumphant art showing at the North Port Center for Arts. Her paintings, like her life, were vibrant expressions of her soul, touching all who had the privilege to behold them. Her artist talents also shown through in her love of gardening and cooking as well. She had a way of making everything just a bit more beautiful.

Dorothea's legacy is a tapestry woven with the love of her family. She was the beloved wife of the late Salvatore Privitera, and together they shared a bond that transcended time. She was preceded in death by her three children, Diane Privitera, Mark Privitera, and Cynthia Privitera-Bacewicz. She leaves behind her granddaughters, Teresa Willbanks and Alicia Bacewicz, and her two great-grandsons, her adopted nephew Robert Goren and many special friends and neighbors.

Her nieces and caregivers, Aline Demeusy and Gaeann (Ray) Cormier, stood by her with unwavering support, embodying the family's strength and devotion. Her godson, Daniel Stevens, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, are a testament to the vast family she nurtured with her gentle heart.

Dorothea Privitera was a woman of faith, a wellspring of creativity, and a gentle soul whose presence was a comfort to all. Her life was a melody of love and service, a symphony that will continue to resonate in the memories of those who knew her. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, let us celebrate the beauty she brought into the world and the countless lives she touched with her artistry and grace.

As the sun sets on the life of Dorothea Privitera, let us hold fast to the warmth she left behind. Her journey on this earth may have come to a close, but her spirit soars on wings of song and strokes of color, forever reminding us of the power of faith, the beauty of creativity, and the tenderness of a gentle soul. Rest well, dear sister, in the knowledge that your legacy will continue to inspire and uplift for generations to come. Amen.

Dorothea will lie in state at San Pedro Catholic Church of North Port, FL on Sat. June 29 from 10 am until 11 am and the Funeral Mass will begin at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Leukemia Society.