Dorothy A. (Wesley) Fontana

**DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE FAMILY HAS DECIDED THAT SERVICES WILL BE POSTPONED TO SATURDAY 2/7 WITH VISITING HOURS 12:00-3:00PM FOLLOWED BY A SERVICE IN THE FUNERAL HOME AT 3:00PM**
 

Dorothy Alice Fontana (Wesley), passed away peacefully and surrounded by her adoring family, at her home in Quincy, MA, on Thursday, January 22, 2026. She was 78 years old.

Born on a Sunday, March 23, 1947, in Boston, MA, Dorothy lived on Hamilton Street in Dorchester with her parents, Dorothy Alice Wesley (Reardon) and Robert Ellis Wesley; her brother Mark; and her grandmother Alice Reardon (Danehy). She graduated from the Jeremiah E. Burke High School for Girls in 1965, and went on to a career at John Hancock Insurance Company, dedicating 28 years of service before retiring in 2002. She returned to the workforce a year later at the MBTA as a Red Line Train Operator. She thoroughly enjoyed serving the public in her second career, where she made many dear friends. She brought brightness and enthusiasm to work each day until her final retirement from the T after 12 years.

Dorothy's personal life was rich with love and companionship. She shared a strong and enduring marriage with her husband, John J. Fontana, beginning on October 25, 1969, after five years of courtship. Together, they worked diligently to build a life filled with joy and laughter, welcoming two children into the world. Soon after having their daughter, the family moved to their home in Quincy, where their son was born, and where Dorothy resided for the rest of her days.

Dorothy loved her children, Melissa Quiñones and her husband Ivan of Roslindale, and Jason Fontana and his wife Christine of Braintree, with her entire heart and soul. She also thoroughly delighted in her role as Mima to six beloved and cherished grandchildren, Francesca, Anabelle, and Ivan "Nino" Quiñones; and Luca, Claudia, and Elena Fontana, taking immense pleasure in all of their milestones and accomplishments.

Dorothy shared an extraordinary bond with her brother, Mark E. Wesley, and his companion, Michelle Ponte of Saugus. She also held a special place in her heart for her brother-in-law, Joseph Fontana and his wife Penny (McLeod), and her sister-in-law, Joan O'Neill (Fontana) and her husband Arthur "Tip". She was a doting Auntie to Lisa Blakeney (Fontana) and her husband John, Stephanie Stohler (O’Neill) and her husband Matt, and their children Evan and Sienna. Dorothy loved and was loved by many others, including her cousins Kathleen Regan (Moan) Patricia McDonald (Moan), Diane Savioli (Moan) and Edward Moan, James Reardon, Lynne Reardon, and Patty Moon (Reardon); aunt Helene Wilson; extended family member Sharkell Matthews; and many work friends and neighbors. Dorothy was always ready for anyone in need with a hug, her beautiful smile, and words of encouragement and sage advice.

Dorothy's circle of close friends was a testament to her affectionate and approachable nature. Her dear friends Bobby Abraham and his late wife Mary, Carol and Tom Bianco, and Maureen Magri and her late husband Tom, were a significant part of and a constant presence in her life, sharing in her joys and providing support through the years. Over their lifetime of friendship, Dorothy was a proud and loving aunt to all of the children of these close friends, and shared in the joy of all of their grandchildren as well.

A woman of many interests, Dorothy was known for her love of casinos, and enjoyed spending entertaining and exciting time at the slot machines. Shopping was another passion of hers. She had a number of friends with whom she would explore the stores for bargains (most often purchasing “no occasion” gifts for her grandchildren and children), and enjoy leisurely lunches. Her greatest joy was giving to and spending time with her family, and especially her grandkids.

Dorothy was predeceased by many beloved family members, including her uncle James Reardon and his wife Donita; her cousins Kevin Reardon, Kenny Moan, Linda Poire, and Cheryl Chopchitz; and very dear friends Linda Fergal and Linda Campbell.

As we bid farewell to Dorothy, we celebrate a life marked by an unwavering commitment to family, friends, and the simple joys of life. Her memory will continue to inspire and comfort us. She will be remembered fondly by all who knew her, and we will keep her in our hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Dorothy’s memory.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dorothy A. (Wesley) Fontana, please visit our floral store.