SOUTHWICK: Dorothy Joan (VanMater) Coward, 87, (1933-2021) devoted wife of 64 years to Connie E. Coward died May 28,2021 surrounded by her loving family.
Dorothy was born in Jamaica, New York on December 10, 1933 and was a lifelong resident of Southwick. Dorothy and Connie founded Coward Farms, raising black angus cattle before moving on to growing Christmas trees. Dorothy had long and lasting relationships with her friends; some as long as 80 years. She enjoyed getting together with them on a weekly basis. Most important to her was her devotion to her family. She will be lovingly missed.
In addition to her husband, Dorothy leaves two sons, William E. Coward and his wife Diane of TN, John D. Coward and his wife Teresa of Southwick; one daughter Nancy Caron and her spouse Linda Holbrook of AZ, one brother, Robert H. VanMater of Florida; a sister, Janet Marguerite VanMater, predeceased Dorothy in 1933. Also survived by 8 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Family and friends may gather from 4:00 PM-7:00 PM on Thursday (June 3, 2021) in the Southwick Forastiere Funeral & Cremation, 624 College Highway, Southwick. A funeral home service will take place on Friday at 10:00 AM in the funeral home with burial to follow in the New Cemetery, Southwick. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. www.forastierefuneralhome.com
