Dorothy Ransford, 82
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Dorothy Linda (Giusti)) Ransford, 82 of North Adams, MA died Wednesday July 17, 2024 at her home.
She was born in North Adams, MA on July 12, 1942, a daughter of Bruno and Geraldine (Santolin) Giusti. She graduated from Drury High School in 1960 and North Adams State College in 1964.
Dorothy was last employed as a real estate agent with Steepleview Realty until her retirement. She began her working career as an elementary school teacher in the North Adams and Clarksburg public schools. Dorothy and her late husband co-founded and operated several businesses in the community including Ransford Properties, The Frame Shop, The Cider Mill and Kleen Kraft Janitorial Services. She was also a licensed auctioneer and antique appraiser.
Dorothy was an ordained minister and last attended St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. An active member of the business and civic life in the community, she was involved in many organizations including the Business and Professional Women’s Club, the Northern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce, the Mohawk Trail Association, the North Adams Elks and the North Adams Lions Club. She was a board member of the MCLA Alumni Association and the North Adams Historical Society. Dorothy enjoyed singing and was a member of the Berkshire Chorale.
She was the widow of Charles Russell “Rusty” Ransford who died on October 13, 2018. They were married on August 31, 1963. Survivors include her son, Charles Russell “Randy” Ransford Jr and Christine Wenz and three grandchildren, Dr. Gabrielle Ransford, Dr. Briana Ransford and Mackenzie Charles Ransford and his wife, Siobhan. She also leaves three step grandchildren, Adam Cottrell, Mark Cottrell and Heather Morris; two great grandchildren, Elliot and Theodore; three sisters, Elizabeth (Alfred) Dickinson, Barbara (Richard) Steele and Cynthia Pehl and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son, Lee Hamilton Ransford in 1972 and brother-in-law Brian Pehl.
The family would like to send their gratitude to all of the Hospice workers who provided excellent care for Dorothy through her time of need.
FUNERAL NOTICE: The celebration of life for Dorothy Ransford will be Saturday August 31, 2024 at 12 Noon at FLYNN & DAGNOLI-MONTAGNA HOME FOR FUNERALS WEST CHAPELS, 521 West Main St. North Adams, MA. Burial will be private. Calling hours at the funeral home are Saturday morning from 10:00 AM to 12 Noon. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lee Hamilton Ransford Memorial Scholarship at MCLA or Shriner’s Hospital in care of the funeral home. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com
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