IN MEMORIAM

Dorothy Marie Smith Weir, 97;

67-Year Organist At Milford 

MILFORD – Dorothy Marie Smith Weir, 97, the organist for 67 years at the Milford United Methodist Church, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord Monday, Feb. 12, surrounded by her loving family after a short illness.

Dorothy was born in Bethany, Pa., the daughter of Methodist Reverend Joseph H. Smith and Marie E. Albertson.  She attended various schools prior to moving to Oneonta. Dorothy graduated from Oneonta High School in the Class of 1939. After graduation, she attended Syracuse University, majoring in Music and Fine Arts with a minor in organ.

On February 7th, 1942 she married Richard L. Weir. The family was raised in their Milford Center home from 1948 to present.  She stayed home to raise their children until 1960 when she went to work for Otsego County, and later became the Accounting Department Supervisor of Social Services.  She worked there until her retirement in 1985.

Throughout all of her life, her family and faith held great significance. She played organ for the Milford United Methodist Church for over 68 years, and was a member of multiple different committees, and organizations for the church. She played the organ for countless weddings and gave piano lessons to many in the community. Even through her last day, the church and her faith were an eloquent part of her life.

Dorothy had a variety of skills and talents.  She enjoyed sewing, knitting, and embroidery.  Her handmade creations included sweaters, gloves, table cloths, and blankets, which were usually given to her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Dot loved being outdoors and appreciated all of God’s creations.  She enjoyed gardening, and spending time with their horses.  She also spent years hunting with her husband and family. In her earlier years she was an avid swimmer and canoer. Many of these experiences began at the family house on Silver Lake in the summer.  She continued traveling to Silver Lake for the rest of her life in the summer months with her children, and grandchildren.

Her love of sports spread throughout her family members.  Dot loved to watch her Orangemen of Syracuse University play basketball.  She also was an avid Yankee Baseball fan, following her favorite Derek Jeter into his retirement.  Dorothy was the greatest enthusiast for both her grandchildren, and great grandchildren’s sports careers.  She went to as many different games as she could attend. She was very proud of her family, and all of their accomplishments.

Dorothy is predeceased by her two brothers John Phillip and Joseph H. Smith.  She is survived by her sister, Marjorie Reichard.  She is also survived by her children; Richard L. and Bonnie, Donna and Ross, James and Cynthia.  Dorothy is survived by eight grandchildren; William and Pam, Mike and Monica, Kate and Clint, Colleen and Chris, Sharon and Thom, Rebecca and Chris, Kim and Lorne, and Shannon and Sam.  She is survived by her thirteen great-grandchildren; Katherine, Mason, Andre, Jordan, Lilli, Ashlynn, Ryleigh, Henry, Brycen, Peyton, Madilyn, Luke, and Liam.

Calling hours will be held 5-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16 at the Milford United Methodist Church, 113 North Main Street in Milford.   The Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17 in the sanctuary of the Cooperstown United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut Street in Cooperstown.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Milford United Methodist Church Memorial Fund.

Arrangements are entrusted to Tillapaugh Funeral Service, Cooperstown.