Obituary of Dorothy Stoker

Dorothy V. Stoker, 96, of Cortland, passed away on March 16, 2019, surrounded by her family. Dorothy was born in Cortland on January 2, 1923, the daughter of the late Michael Stevens and Lena Smith Stevens. She was the wife of the late Robert N. Stoker, with whom she shared a fulfilling 65 years. A parishioner of St. Mary's Church, Dorothy was a member of the local Altar Society and she also enjoyed attending Tuesday masses at St. Anthony's and the social gatherings with her friends after. Dorothy and her husband owned and operated Stevens Diner on Clinton Avenue. After it's closing in 1970, she worked in sales at several clothing stores in the Cortland area, including Chappell's Department Store until her retirement. Dorothy loved dancing with her husband and family to big band music, an era that meant a lot to her. She was an excellent cook and baker. You could always count on her to bake delicious picture perfect cookies for special occasions. Everyone looked forward to meals she prepared sharing her many favorite recipes. Dorothy's love of nature was evident with her talent for gardening. She also had a vision for home decorating. Dorothy treasured time spent with her children and grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was a caring and faithful friend to many. Dorothy is survived by her son, Robert M. (Celeste) Stoker of Cortland; daughters, Sandra (David) Deasy of Leland, NC, Linda (Mark Griswold) of Cortland, Amy (James) Prowak of Victor, NY; grandchildren David R Deasy, Kelly Deasy, Julie Minor, Carolyn Souzas, Dustin Cutler, Joseph Cutler, Michael Prowak, Kimberly Prowak, as well as 10 great-grandchildren; her brothers John (Mary) Stevens, and Robert (Kay) Stevens; and her sister Beatrice O'Mara and brother-in-law Edward Purser. In addition to her husband, Robert, Dorothy was predeceased by her brothers James and Albert Stevens, and sisters Norma Lundberg and Betty Ann Purser. A memorial mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 22, at St. Mary's Church at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider a donation to Hospice of Cortland. To offer online condolences, please visit www.wright-beard.com