Dorothy E. Worthan

Dorothy Elaine Worthan (née Cross), age 85, of Hazel Crest, Illinois, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 3, 1941.

Dorothy is survived by her beloved husband of 64 years, Douglas P. Worthan, and their six children: Terri Elliott (Chris), Carol Worthan, Elizabeth Worthan, Lynn Seibert (David), Maribeth Chapa (Tony), and Douglas Worthan Jr. (Tricia). She was the proud and loving grandmother of 12 grandchildren and great grandmother of 7.

Dorothy was a devoted and loving wife to Douglas and mother to her children, and her love extended just as deeply to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was the rock of our family and the keeper of our photos and documents, faithfully preserving our family's history and lineage for generations to come.

From 1979 to 2004, Dorothy spent 25 years as a teacher's aide at Rich East High School, where she was loved by students and staff alike.

Friendships were a treasured part of Dorothy's life. She was a wonderful storyteller and a fierce friend, and there was nothing she wouldn't do for the people she cared about. Her warm and welcoming spirit made everyone feel at home, and no one was ever a stranger to her for long. She also had a lifelong love of reading, and the hours she spent at the library were something she truly cherished.

Above all, Dorothy was a devout Catholic whose love for the Lord and the Church guided every part of her life. She prayed daily for those she loved and gladly added anyone to her prayer list who asked. Her faith was truly remarkable, and it remains a lasting example for all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 4, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Tews-Ryan Funeral Home, 18230 Dixie Highway, Homewood, IL 60430. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, October 5, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Veronica Parish, 1120 Douglas Avenue, Flossmoor, IL 60422.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dorothy's memory to Mercy Home for Boys and Girls at https://donate.mercyhome.org.