Dorothea Sneddon, lovingly known to family and friends as “Dorothy,” passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the age of 86.
Born June 18, 1940, in Scotland, Dorothy was one of twelve children and lived a life centered around the people she loved. She loved fiercely, gave generously of herself, and was deeply devoted to her family. Family was always at the heart of her life, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and countless memories that will be cherished for generations.
Dorothy was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert F. Sneddon Jr.; her parents, James and Dorothea McQuilkin (nee McClenaghan); her brothers Patrick, David, James, and Allan McQuilkin; and her sisters Kathleen Mulrenan, Nancy Loughlin, Joan Hemphill, Christine Keating, and Mary Crawford.
She is survived by her children, Thea Lynch and her husband, Frank; Robert “Bobby” Sneddon III; Pauline Trathen and her husband, Tim; and David Sneddon and his wife, Massiel; her beloved grandchildren, Bobby, Alex, Colin, and Sean Lynch, Harrison Trathen, and Andrew Sneddon; and her sisters, Elizabeth Parkin and her husband, Ward, and Isabella Elliott. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. As one of twelve siblings, Dorothy was part of a wonderfully large family, and those relationships remained an important part of her life.
Dorothy found joy in the simple things that made a life full. She loved to read and was a talented knitter, often happiest when she had something to keep her hands and mind busy. That same spirit carried into her working life. Dorothy continued working until the age of 79 at The Piper’s Cove in Kearny, where she enjoyed staying active, being around people, and remaining connected to the community she had known for so many years.
Later in life, Dorothy moved to Florida to be closer to her family. She embraced her time there, enjoying the warmth and sunshine, but most of all the opportunity to be near the people she loved.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny, New Jersey. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington. Following the interment, family and friends are invited to gather for a repast in celebration of Dorothy’s life.
