BOWDOINHAM - Dorothy Barbieri, age 77, of Bowdoinham, Maine, passed away peacefully on February 15th, 2026, though anyone who knew her suspects she did so with her broomstick in hand, ready to fly off over the rainbow where bluebirds fly.

Born on June 24, 1948, in Stoneham, Massachusetts, Dorothy was the daughter of Robert and Mildred MacDonald. From an early age, her caring nature was evident. She began volunteering in healthcare at just 12 years old and went on to dedicate many years of her life as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She was a proud graduate of Middlesex Community College and cared deeply for those she served.

Dorothy had a love for simple joys and big adventures alike. After retirement, she became an avid traveler and delighted in exploring the world—often fueled by her favorite peanut butter and jelly sandwiches she enjoyed across many countries. Closer to home, she loved farm life, raising ducks, and never hesitated to bring newborn lambs inside the house when they needed warmth and care.

Family was the center of Dorothy’s world. She cherished being present for the birth of her granddaughter Adaline and treasured the time they spent together on family trips, including the unforgettable adventure of riding a camel together. She delighted in making memories with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always showing up with love, laughter, and stories.

Dorothy also shared many joyful moments with her husband, Thomas Barbieri, especially during spirited games of charades that brought laughter to their home.

She is survived by her brother, Robert MacDonald and his wife Rachel MacDonald; her sister, Sandra Morrissey and her husband Kevin Morrissey; her children, Jeff Morris and his wife Dawn Morris, Steven Morris, Ken Morris, Samantha Doyle and her husband Pete Doyle, and Amanda Barbieri and her fiancé Stephen Messer. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Kayla, Haley, Nicholas, Kevin, Priscilla, Victoria, Anthony, Ariana, Julya, Adaline, and Jaxson; and her great-grandchildren, Julius, Jakobe, Ryan, and Mason.

Dorothy was predeceased by her beloved husband, Thomas Barbieri, and her son, Donald Morris.

Dorothy's life will be celebrated on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave, Gardiner, Maine, visiting hours will begin at 11:00am, followed by the funeral service at 12:00pm. We invite all who loved her to come and share their memories, stories, and experiences of Dorothy, to weave a communal tapestry of love and remembrance in her honor.

We invite you to contribute to this diary, by leaving your memories and uploading photos to the memorial page at www.staplesfuneralhome.com Dorothy touched each of our lives in unique ways, and your stories will help keep her spirit alive, providing comfort and solace during this difficult time.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.