Dorothy E. Gamble, 99, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at her daughter’s home surrounded by her loving family. She led a remarkable life, filled with resilience, generosity, and love for her family. Dot was born in Bohard, County Tyrone and was raised in County Armagh, Northern Ireland on the family farm. She immigrated to the United States to live with her uncle and aunt in Southwest Philadelphia. She arrived at Ellis Island, NY on September 1, 1949, at age 25. She left many family members and friends behind in hopes of a better life in America. She met her wonderful husband Herbie (also from Ireland) at an Irish parade in Willow Grove and they enjoyed a wonderful life together. Dot had a beautiful Irish Brogue that everyone enjoyed listening to. She missed Ireland but never regretted her move to the US. Dot was very proud when she and Herbie became US citizens. She was a skilled seamstress by trade, having learned the trade in Belfast, Northern Ireland working for an aunt and uncle in their tailor shop. Once she had children, she was a devoted stay–at–home mom. Dot worked hard along–side her husband buying and selling houses; they were ahead of their time in regard to flipping properties. They also had many rentals that Herb fixed up and Dot managed the rental process. She had a great personality and always had a soft heart for their tenants. She had been known to give tenants money (versus collecting it) when tenants hit hard times. She never wanted to see anyone suffer. She once invited a man who seemed lonely in the check-out line at the Acme to dinner at her house (to Herbie’s surprise). George became a staple at Sunday dinners (as well as weekly dinners) and a close family friend for many years. Anyone that came to her house was welcomed with open arms and fed well, including pets in need. Dot’s family was always her top priority. She was generous to all her family members, and she would do without to ensure that her children and grandchildren had what they needed. When Dot was 40 years old, she was given a month to live due to Colon Cancer. Not only did she survive a major surgery, but she also proved doctors wrong by thriving for another 59 years. She said she had children to raise so her time would just have to wait. She didn’t know at the time that she was also going to raise two of her grandchildren who are also grateful that she chose to stick around a while longer. Dot had a soft heart, but she was also brave and strong. She stood up to anyone if she needed to, especially for her family.
Dot was predeceased by her husband, Herbert Gamble and parents George Joyce and Sarah Crawford Joyce. She was the last surviving sibling, predeceased by brothers Stanley, Jim, Ronald, George (Jordy), Leslie and sister Florence.
Dot is survived by her children: Stanley Gamble (Joanne) of Pottstown, PA, Victor Gamble of Norwood, Eileen Collins (Maitland) of West Grove, 5 wonderful grandchildren: Kyle, Kristina, Kevin, Kelly, and Julia (Ryan); and 9 great-grandchildren who she adored – Ashley, Joshua, Kali, Chase, Taylor, Kaitlin, Lauren, Ethan, and Luke. She was so proud of her beautiful family, and they all loved her very much.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 21 from 11am to Noon at the Griffith Funeral Chapel, 520 Chester Pike, Norwood, PA followed by a Memorial Service starting at Noon at the funeral home. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions made in Dorothy’s memory to Brandywine River Valley Hospice, 1011 West Baltimore Pike, Suite 208, West Grove, PA 19390 would be appreciated. Condolences via email: griffithfuneralchapel@gmail.com
