WESTVILLE, N.S. — Dorothy Jean Rogers, 88, of Westville, has died, leaving behind a large, close-knit family and a reputation for generosity, quiet humour and steady devotion to those she loved.
A life centred on family and service
Dorothy was born in Springville to Richard and Eliza (Keddy) Hawboldt. Her working life included jobs at a local cleaners and at Michelin, and she later provided essential behind-the-scenes support for her husband’s small fuel business, T. Rogers Fuels. Neighbours and relatives recall a woman who welcomed visitors, organised family time and kept a ready laugh for any gathering.
She is survived by six children — Maureen Rogers and Donna (Clayton) Canning of Westville; Kevin Rogers (Carrie) of Caribou; Derrick (Barb) Rogers of Dartmouth; David (Tanya) Rogers of Westville — along with a brother, Richard Hawboldt (Francis) of Mt. William, and an extended family that included what the obituary describes as special relationships with niece Susan Watters, Renie Rogers and cousin Maureen ("Cookie") Lamey. Her family numbered 12 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age | 88 |
| Hometown | Westville / Born in Springville |
| Immediate survivors | Six children, one brother, multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren |
Passions and pastimes
Camping was among Dorothy’s favourite pursuits; she and friends travelled to campgrounds across Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. She also realised personal travel ambitions, visiting Florida, London and Ireland. Family members said she loved attending sporting events to cheer on her children and grandchildren and that she relished ordinary routines like shopping trips and long visits with neighbours.
In later years, after the death of her husband, Ted Rogers, Dorothy established a ritual known in the family as “Dorothy’s Day.” On Thursdays she set aside time for extended family to stop by, talk about the past and catch up on news. Evenings were often rounded out with bingo played with grandchildren — small moments that became cherished family memory.
Kindness toward children and charitable instincts
Members of the family highlighted Dorothy’s concern for children beyond her own household. They say she worried about youngsters everywhere and frequently offered help or charity to children in need. That empathy, they added, was a defining characteristic of how she viewed the world.
- Worked at Quality Cleaners early in life and later at Michelin.
- Provided administrative and practical support to T. Rogers Fuels.
- Enjoyed travel, camping and family sporting events.
Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, Ted Rogers, her parents Richard and Eliza Hawboldt and several siblings: Mary (Melvin) MacKeigan; Sally (John) Macdonald; Judy (Wayne) Wade; Pauline Hawboldt; and brother Robert (Sally) Hawboldt.
In a life described by relatives as warm and generous, Dorothy’s greatest pleasure came from being with people she loved. Her family remembers her as the positive force in conversations and as someone who carried a deep concern for the welfare of children everywhere.
Funeral details and arrangements were provided by Eagles Funeral Home. The family has invited friends and neighbours to celebrate her life and legacy.
This account is based on the notice published by the family and made available through Eagles Funeral Home.
