Dorothy Teresa (Charney) Douglass

Dorothy Charney Douglass, age 103, of DeLand, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, in DeLand.

Born on March 1, 1923, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Dorothy was the daughter of Matthew Charney and Anna Vernoci. A woman of faith, she was a devoted member of the Catholic community throughout her life, and of the Saint Peter community the past 30+ years.

Dorothy was truly a woman ahead of her time. During World War II, like many other women, she worked in a field traditionally dominated by men, helping build airplanes in support of the war effort. She worked at the Vought-Sikorsky plant in Stratford, Connecticut building the famous F4U Corsairs. Her dedication and determination reflected the strength and resilience that defined the Greatest Generation. After the war she married Kenneth Douglass, and they raised three children.

Dorothy had considerable artistic talent. She was a wonderful cook, made clothing, painted, and was an avid gardener. Dorothy was a volunteer at Advent Health DeLand; she especially enjoyed being a volunteer tour guide at DeLand Memorial Museum in Bill Dreggors Park. She also volunteered at DeLand museums and was proud to be a Guild member of the Museum of Florida Art.

Dorothy will be remembered for her faith, perseverance, and the example she set for those who knew and loved her.

Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth and her sons Thomas and David. She is survived by her daughter, Dorothy Saia, grandson Edward Gereg, several step-grandchildren in Harpursville NY, and several nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Peter Catholic Church, located at 359 W New York Ave, DeLand, FL 32720 on Thursday, June 25 at 10 AM.

Dorothy's family and friends will cherish her memory and celebrate a life well lived over more than a century.

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