Dorothy R. Fitch

Amherst, Massachusetts

Dorothy Rugg Fitch, 85, of Greenfield, MA and Punta Gorda, FL died peacefully on October 27, 2018 after a joyful life.
An energetic and caring woman, “Dottie" dedicated her life to working with children, to music, to service in her community and to family. She was born on September 5, 1933 in Greenfield, MA daughter of Clarence and Dorothy Phelps Rugg. She met her husband of 44 years, David Fitch, while they attended what is currently Northfield Mount Hermon School. She graduated from Northfield in 1951 and from Connecticut College in 1955. She married David on June 25, 1955. After spending two years in Okinawa, they moved back to her hometown to be part of the family business, Rugg Manufacturing and Lumber Company, which dates back to 1842.
In Greenfield, Dottie taught pre-school and started an early childhood program at the Greenfield Girls’ Club. She was also a long-time Head Start coordinator in Franklin County and worked with the Greenfield YMCA. In addition, she held a number of roles at Second Congregational Church, including Youth Choir Director for many years. In her commitment to music and to children, she coordinated 300 children to participate in the Green River Choir Festival in Northampton. In addition, she supported the United Way and also re-started Junior Branch to support the local hospital.
Dottie enjoyed sailboat racing with her husband. She was a member of both the Spofford Yacht Club in New Hampshire and the Platinum Point Yacht Club in Florida. She was an exceptionally cheerful person who loved being active outdoors. Skiing, tennis, hiking, camping, gardening, and boating were some of her favorite outdoor activities. Mostly, she enjoyed incorporating music into all aspects of her life and being active with children, friends and family.
Dottie was predeceased by her husband, David Fitch; siblings, Alan Rugg, William Rugg, and Robert Rugg; and grandson Christopher Rugg Mattson. She is survived by her sons, Robert Scott Fitch of San Antonio, TX and Thomas Rugg Fitch and his wife Debbie (Ellmore) of Deerfield, MA; daughter, Laura Fitch Mattson and her husband Jon of New York; her grandchildren, and many close relatives and friends who were like family to her.
The memorial service to celebrate Dottie’s life will be on November 10 at 2pm in the Second Congregational Church, Court Square, Greenfield, MA, with Rev. Corey Sanderson officiating. Following the service, a reception will be held in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Second Congregational Church

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