December 8, 1935-June 7, 2026
Dorothy (Dotti) Mary Martin Tavares, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at home on June 7, 2026, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. She was 90 years old. Dorothy was born on December 8, 1935, in Somerville, Massachusetts, to Manuel and Mary Martin.
Dorothy’s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter and enduring relationships. She was a graduate of Somerville High School and went on to forge a dedicated career with the telephone company, navigating its many iterations with grace and perseverance. After her retirement, she continued to share her warmth and kindness as a part-time receptionist at a local dentist’s office.
On November 26, 1955, Dorothy married the love of her life, Manuel Tavares, in a ceremony held in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Together, they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage, filled with joy and adventure. Dorothy and Manuel were blessed with four children – Marianne, Richard and his wife Linda, John, and Denise and her husband Joseph – who were the center of her world. Her legacy of love continues through her five grandchildren, Steven, Nicholas and his wife Erin, Jeffrey, Patrick and Erin Maria Rose, as well as her cherished great-granddaughters, Taya and Madisyn.
Dorothy was a vibrant soul who loved being surrounded by people. She found joy in engaging with others, always ready with a story or a laugh. Her love for travel with Manuel, singing, dancing, and playing a lively game of canasta brought color and vibrancy to her days. In her quieter moments, she found solace in reading and working on word searches. She had a special love for her many dogs, in particular Coco, Puff and Toto. Her faith was an anchor throughout her life; she was an active member of the Catholic Church in every community she called home.
She is predeceased by her husband Manuel Tavares, her parents Manuel and Mary Martin and her brother Richard Martin. Her spirit lives on in the hearts of her surviving family members, who hold dear memories of her love, laughter, and unwavering strength.
Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Harbor Hospice, especially her nurse Debbie, whose compassion and care provided immense comfort during her final days.
Visiting hours will be held at Jeter Funeral home, 311 N. Friendswood Dr. Friendswood, TX 77546, on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 6pm to 8pm. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00am on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Mary Queen Catholic Church, 606 Cedarwood Dr. Friendswood, TX 77546. Burial will be at a future date in the Houston Veterans Cemetery, where she will join her late husband, Manuel.
