Dorothea Ann Burnell

Dorothea (Dorrie) Burnell, 92, of North Shapleigh, passed away peacefully on Friday, 8, 2024, at Summer Commons in Sanford, ME. Dorrie was born in Stoneham, MA on February 3, 1932, to Harold and Dorothy (Grant) Finnegan. Growing up in Stoneham, she attended local schools and embarked on a life journey filled with love, dedication, and family. While visiting her family's summer home in North Shapleigh, Dorrie met the love of her life, John A. Burnell. They married in 1955 and purchased her family's summer home, where they settled and built a life together. Committed to each other, they raised six children and shared 52 years of marriage until John's passing in 2008. Dorrie’s life was centered around her family. She found joy in caring for her loved ones, always putting their needs before her own. Her days were filled with the laughter and warmth of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Dorrie’s love extended beyond her immediate family; she also welcomed neighbors' children into her home with open arms, treating them as her own and her home was always filled with warmth and love. A talented cook, Dorrie delighted in preparing delicious meals for her large family. She relished family gatherings and cherished the moments spent together around the dining table. She also loved to quietly enjoy a meal while watching one of her favorite shows or a movie on television. Dorrie’s Irish heritage held a special place in her heart, and she eagerly celebrated St. Patrick's Day with enthusiasm and pride. Known for her Irish Resolve at times, Dorrie’s determination was a testament to her strong character and unwavering dedication to her loved ones. As well as being a dedicated Homemaker Dorrie also worked outside the home when times were tough. Animals also held a special significance in Dorrie’s life, particularly her beloved cats, whom she adored dearly. She will be remembered as a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness. Dorothea was predeceased by her husband, John A. Burnell, her parents, and her sister, Marie McGhee. She is survived by her six children: Ann Marie Orendorff and her husband Wayne of Moline, Illinois; Mary Reed and her husband Donnie of West Newfield; Debra Burnell of Waterboro; John Harold Burnell of Shapleigh and daughter-in-law Rhonda L. Burnell ; Edward Burnell, Sr., and his partner Rènee Souter of East Waterboro; and Elizabeth Radley and her husband Chris of West Newfield. She is also survived by her brother, Thomas Charles Finnegan of Shapleigh; 11 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; three nieces; and a nephew. A graveside service to honor Dorrie & John’s lives will be held in the spring at Highland Grove Cemetery in Shapleigh. Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, her memory forever cherished in our hearts.