Dorothy Ann (Reed) Pifer of Lewiston, NY passed on to be with her Savior and Lord on Sunday, January 16, 2022. Dorothy was born June 10, 1919 in Jefferson County, Pennsylvania, during the influenza pandemic. Her parents were Charles William Reed and Cora Ann (Clark) Reed.
Dorothy’s early childhood was spent on her parents’ farm. They moved to Niagara Falls where Dorothy attended Niagara Falls Schools and graduated from Kelley Business Institute. She was an accountant at the Spirella Company.
Back in Jefferson County, Dorothy dated and fell in love with Royce Elmon Pifer. Dorothy and Royce were married in the Upper Church in an area known as “Paradise”, named for its beautiful rolling green hills, fertile land, and abundant wildlife.
The newlyweds lived in Niagara Falls, then purchased an acre of pasture land on Bronson Drive in the town of Lewiston. Together Royce and Dorothy built a warm, welcoming Christ-centered home that they lived in for the rest of their lives. Education was a priority in their home. They made the sacrifices necessary for all five children to attend college.
Dorothy served the community as a dedicated member of the Upper Mt. Fire Company Auxiliary and she spent many years participating in and leading Scout troops. As a member of the Christian Education committee at the First Presbyterian Church in Lewiston, she joyously introduced hundreds of children to the love of Jesus for over 60 years.
Dorothy and her husband were blessed with opportunities to travel extensively. Their most memorable journeys were trips to Europe, Australia, Hawaii, Alaska and Israel. They enjoyed their yearly trips to Virginia Beach with children and grandchildren. A great swimmer and diver, Dorothy enjoyed the ocean waves.
She was also a talented seamstress, gardener, and tennis player. Her greatest joy was being with her children, 18 grandchildren and their spouses, and 38 great-grandchildren who adored her for her warmth, kindness and hospitality. We take great comfort knowing we will be reunited with Dorothy through our faith in Jesus Christ.
Dorothy is survived by five children, a son Royce R. (Lynn) Pifer of Bath, NY and four daughters, Carol Dick of Ashburn, VA, Bonnie Rutledge of Medina, NY, Janet Livingston of Youngstown, NY and Sharon (David) Rugg of Ransomville, NY.
A private burial will be at North Ridge Cemetery. A Celebration of Dorothy’s Life will be held in the summer.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Samaritan’s Purse International Relief, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.
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