Dorothy M. Phelan, 90, of Salem, born July 30, 1930 to the late Harold & Mary (Caulfield) Arnold, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2021 with her family by her side. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert Phelan, the devoted mother of Brian Phelan (Deborah), the late Scott Phelan (Allison), Keith Phelan (Beth) and Robert Phelan, Jr. She was predeceased by her brothers, James and Harold Arnold, sister, Phyllis Urbanski, son, Scott Phelan and companion, Peter Carbone, Jr. She will be the forever loved grandmother and great-grandmother, known as "Grammy Dot" to Dawne Vincent, Christopher Goodwin, Jennifer Reeves, Daniel Phelan, Corey Phelan, Shannon Phelan, Kerry Phelan, Spencer Phelan, Haley Phelan, Natalie Phelan, Rebekah Vincent, Liana Reeves, & Sofia Reeves. Dorothy leaves behind her loving sister, Jane Akre (George), her lifelong friends, Pearl Carne & Isabelle Sweeney. She also leaves several nieces, nephews and a number of dear friends.

Dorothy grew up in Salem and attended Salem High School and belonged to the graduating class of 1948. Following graduation, she worked at New England Telephone Company in Salem. She was married to Robert Phelan in April of 1953 after he returned from the Navy, fighting in both World War II and the Korean War. They shared 28 happy years of marriage until Bob's passing in 1981. Dot went on to work as a Special Education aide at Carlton, Bates & Witchcraft Heights Schools in Salem. She later worked for the Essex County Sheriff's Writ Office until her retirement in 1990.

Dorothy was a dedicated mother, her boys meant everything to her and she was so proud of the men she raised. Becoming a widow at 49 was difficult but Dorothy's unwavering fighting spirit and positive attitude always gave her the courage to push forward. She always had a smile to share and made people laugh. She had a vivacious personality, making friends everywhere she went. She especially loved her family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and the time she spent with them.

Dorothy's high school graduating class of 1948 was something special; to date, this group of friends continues to meet once a month for lunch. Peter Carbone, Jr., another member of the graduating class of 1948 became Dot's beloved companion in 1998. They were reunited at their 50th class reunion and they rekindled a courtship that had begun back in junior high school. They had 13 wonderful years together until Peter's passing in 2011.

Dorothy lived life to the fullest and filled her days by hosting family gatherings, Sunday dinners and spending time with family and friends. She enjoyed knitting, reading, doing crosswords puzzles, and, of course, watching her beloved Patriots. She was an avid fan and was truly one of the "guys" screaming and yelling at the television during the games. She also hosted Christmas Eve each year, a favorite gathering that created fond memories for the entire extended family.

Dot's love was unconditional. She was beyond generous with her time, always sharing a kind word, a bit of advice or a funny story. We will never forget her tenacity, wit, grace and charm with which she lived each day. This gentle, loving and wonderful woman has left a permanent mark etched upon our hearts and will forever be missed by all who loved her.

The family will receive friends and family at Murphy's Funeral Home, 85 Federal Street, Salem, MA on May 5, 2021 from 4-6 p.m. Graveside service from Murphy's Funeral Home at Greenlawn Cemetery 9:00 a.m on May 6th.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff and friends at the Residence at Vinnin Square for their support and kindness, especially Sheila, Hertenza, Iona, Diane, Courtney and LeeAnn, who went the extra mile with Mom; also to the VNA Hospice staff, Nancy, Michelle, Margaret and Dan for the incredible compassionate care during her time with Hospice, as well as her final days.