Dorothy Mcfarland

TROY, NY – Dorothy A. McFarland, died September, 2010. She is survived by her three daughters, two grandchildren, one great-grandchild and their families. Dorothy was born in February, 1920 in Dayton, OH. Her loving brother, Floyd, predeceased her. He beloved uncle, Edwin "Bud" Jamison, encouraged her throughout his life. Educated at Northridge High School, Proctor's Music School for concert piano, and Dayton Art Institute, she was a highly creative woman. Dorothy derived much joy from her talents, as did her family and friends. She married Charles M. McFarland in 1942 and they remained married and together for 65 years. First living in Palmerton, PA, they moved to Niskayuna, NY in the early 1960's. "Dot" was known as an artistic person as well as a lively pianist, jewelry maker, avid indoor and outdoor gardener, warm entertainer and abstract painter. She also studied Asian Brush painting and continued many of her creative pursuits throughout her years. Having retired to Yarmouth Port, Cape Cod in 1982, she became co-founder of the Cape Cod Indoor Plant Association, and she and Charles studied and became Cape Cod Master Gardeners. They volunteered for the Cape Cod Symphony, Chatham Chorale and served as local plant experts for The Barnstable County Fair. She loved to travel with family and friends, going to China, Japan, Scotland, England, France, Spain, Puerto Rico, many other places in Europe, as well as in the U.S. and Canada. In 2006 Dot and Charles returned to Niskayuna for care and to be with family. Dorothy died of congestive heart failure and was in the company of loved ones. In her memory, she asked those of you who knew her to each celebrate her life in their own way. There were no services. She requested cremation and left her own directives which were duly honored. She rests within the beautiful surroundings she so loved.