Dorothy M. (Hayden) MacGregor 84 of Shelburne Falls died on Friday, June 6, 2014 at Charlene Manor in Greenfield. She passed peacefully with her loving, devoted husband by her side after a lengthy period of declining health.
Dorothy was born the daughter of the late Ellen and Charles Hayden on June 10, 1929 in Orange, MA. She was educated in Orange and graduated from Orange High School, Class of 1947. Dorothy continued her higher education, graduating from the Henry Heywood School of Nursing.
On June 9, 1951 she exchanged marital vows with Robert MacGregor III, at the Congregational Church in Orange with several family and friends in attendance. They have been together just days shy of 63 years.
Dorothy pursued a lifelong career as a Registered Nurse in the Birth Center at Franklin County Public Hospital, having been employed there for 38 years. She retired in 1985 to enjoy her golden years with her husband.
Her passion in life was mentoring children. The MacGregors always opened their home to children in need, remaining in touch with and forming long-lasting bonds with many of them over the years. They were both very involved in particular with the Big Brother/Big Sister program. Dorothy loved pets, enjoyed gardening and travel, and routinely contributed to several animal rescue and children’s causes.
Mrs. MacGregor is survived by her husband Robert MacGregor III of Shelburne Falls. She also leaves Dennis Sevene and his fiance Erika Crocker of Colorado Springs, CO, both Greenfield natives who were like family to her, as well as several extended family members and friends.
A gathering to express condolences and meet with the family will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2014 at 2:00 pm at the Shelburne Falls Senior Center, 7 Main St, Shelburne Falls, MA, 01370. Flowers will gladly be accepted, however, the family would prefer donations be made in memory of Dorothy M. MacGregor to either Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Franklin County, PO Box 100, Greenfield, MA or the Shelburne Falls Senior Center. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Homes. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com.
