Dorothy Ayer Larrabee

 Once again I am having to gather my composure to write about a very personal loss. Dorothy Ayer Larrabee passed away on April 10th. Dorothy was a dear friend and a valued member of the team charged with writing the history of West Danville. Dot is the second member of our team to die - Jane Larrabee was the first, leaving us on March 28, 2020.

Like Jane, Dot grew up in West Danville and knew it well. She has been our fact checker and thoughtful counsel in writing this book from the beginning of the project, and Patty Conly and I are reeling from her sudden passing. Not only was Dot a wonderful writer who remained calm and thoughtful as we tackled a project none of us ever anticipated would become so involved and difficult, she was a steadying influence throughout, and we counted on her sage advice and always positive attitude to keep us on course. Our deepest regret is that she will not be with us when the book is published. She worked tirelessly, as she did with anything she tackled. I often marveled at her energy, enthusiasm and dedication.

I first knew Dot in the 1930s when we were both students at the West Danville grade school. Getting to know her again on the history book project was a joy and privilege.  One couldn't ask for a more cooperative, willing or talented collaborator.

We will miss her, but Patty and I agree that she would want us to move ahead and get this project done. I hope she knew how valued she was and how much we will miss her - a good person whose life was cut way too short.