Doris Eleanor Pellecchia's Obituary
Doris Eleanor (McQuillin) Pellecchia
July 1, 1924 – February 24, 2026
Dottie Eleanor Pellecchia, a woman of indomitable spirit, fierce independence, and boundless devotion to her family, passed away at the age of 101. She valued her friends and faith deeply. Dottie was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Patrick Edward Pellecchia, who predeceased her in May 1974.
A Life of Resilience and Dedication
Born in 1924 to John McQuillin and Fredericka Kopp, Dottie lived through the defining moments of the 20th century. She navigated the hardships of the Great Depression and stood as a pillar of strength while her husband served in WWII, eventually welcoming him home from a Japanese prisoner of war camp.
Dottie served her community at veteran’s halls and making care packages for veterans in need. After years of assisting in her husband's medical practice in Philadelphia, she transitioned into the workforce full-time following his passing. She served briefly as a room monitor at Cinnaminson High School before beginning a long, successful career at an allergy practice in Cherry Hill. There, she rose from the receptionist to the Office Manager, working with sharp wit and dedication into her late 80s.
Family and Legacy
Family and her faith were the cornerstones of Dottie’s life. She was the matriarch of a sprawling, vibrant family, and her greatest joy was found in their happiness. She is survived by her 6 children and their spouses; Patrick Pellecchia (Kathleen Laszlo), Dennis Pellecchia (Eve Wassall), Michael Pellecchia (Janice Smith), Patrice Pellecchia (Eric Schnepf), Eileen Nault (Jon Nault), and Edward Pellecchia (Linda Massey)
Dottie was a proud grandmother to her grandchildren; Katharine Pellecchia, Tara Steinmetz (David), Timothy McCleary (Marie Aliaa Goingo), Jenna Walker (Jason), Kevin Pellecchia (Jessica Delfino), Michael McCleary (Jessica Coughlin), Kara Zimmerman (Caldwell), Jonathon McCleary (Rachael Schneider), Meghan McGhee (Brad), and Nicole Kovacevich (Ryan); Jacob Nault; and great grandchildren: Lily, Noelle, Mia, Caldwell III, John, Margot, Abigail, Josephine, Ada, Iestyn, Autumn, Logan, Norah, who were the lights of her life.
Spirit and Adventure
Dottie did not just witness history; she explored the world. From the beaches of the Jersey Shore to the landscapes of China, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and the Virgin Islands, she embraced adventure. She was known for her love of a good party, her signature whiskey sours, and her pragmatic wisdom. She was often heard saying "You can’t shuffle that IF deck," and when asked for life advice, her wish for her children was simple yet profound: "To be happy."
She was predeceased by her parents and her sister, Ruth McQuillin-Smith (William Smith). Dottie remains irreplaceable in the hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy of independence and love will continue to guide her family for generations to come.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Dottie's funeral mass at Sacred Heart Church, of Riverton, NJ, on Friday, March 13th, 2026, at 11am. On Saturday, March 14th, 2026 from 11am - 2:00pm, the family extends an invitation to Riverton Country Club, located at 1416 Highland Ave, Cinnaminson, NJ, 08077, to celebrate Dottie's wonderful life with them.
Burial will be held privately.
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