Dorothy Chatfield MacRitchie

Dorothy Chatfield MacRitchie, age104, passed away on November 11, 2011. Born and raised in Meriden on December 14, 1906, Dorothy was the daughter of the late E. Carlyle Chatfield and Grace Ford Chatfield. After graduating from Central CT State College (then New Britain Normal School) with a degree in Elementary Education, she dedicated her working career over several decades to teaching kindergarten children in both Connecticut & Massachusetts. In addition to an abiding love and concern for young children she was a self taught pianist, an avid bridge player and an enthusiastic bell ringer. She especially enjoyed her retirement years in Chatham, Cape Cod, before returning to Bethany and her final years at Whitney Manor in Hamden. She will be remembered for her unfailing graciousness and warmth. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 33 years, Henry David MacRitchie; her brother Sherwood Chatfield; two sisters, Shirley Chatfield McGuire and Marion Elizabeth Chatfield Lypscon; granddaughter-in-law, Christine Snow MacRitchie. Dorothy is survived by her son David C. MacRitchie (Barbara) of Venice Fl; daughters, Cynthia G. and Roberta F. MacRitchie both of Bethany; grandchildren, Bonnie, Brenda, Daniel (Anne), Joel (Jennifer), James (Vanessa), Toni MacRitchie, and Kyle Works(Jennifer Hernandez); great grandchildren, Komron & Kimia Nouri, Clare, Aidan, Eily, Kelly, Duncan, Carly, Cameron, Kyle, Jordan MacRitchie, and Tasia Shuck, all of whom she cherished and adored. Burial will be private at the convenience of her family. There are no calling hours. BEECHER & BENNETT, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden in care of arrangements. The family wishes to thank the staff of Whitney Manor (especially the second floor) for their care and compassion. Memorial gifts in Dorothy's honor may be sent to the Bethany Volunteer Fire Department, 765 Amity Rd, Bethany, CT 06524 or Save the Children Federation 54 Wilton Rd, Westport, CT 06880 or the charity of your choice.