In Memoriam

Dottie Gebbia
1937-2025

COOPERSTOWN—Dottie Gebbia, a woman of extraordinary determination, unwavering loyalty and boundless love, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2025 in Cooperstown, New York, the town where her remarkable journey began on July 12, 1937.

Dottie was the beloved mother of Sherry Spielberg, Diane Richards and Eddie Leslie. Her legacy extends to her cherished 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, all of whom were the recipients of her endless generosity and adoration.

From a young age, Dottie was driven by a powerful desire for self-improvement and professional advancement.

In the 1960s, she diligently studied shorthand and typing, which was the beginning of her hardworking career as a valued secretary. It didn’t take her long to transition from a secretary to an assistant in the graduate program at the Fenimore House in Cooperstown. Her thirst for knowledge continued, leading her to become a certified financial planner and a successful real estate agent—a testament to her keen intellect and unwavering resolve.

Beyond her impressive professional achievements, Dottie was known for her vibrant spirit and warm heart. She was truly one of the most loyal and fun-loving friends anyone could wish for. As a devoted mother, she tirelessly strived to provide the best for her children, always encouraging and supporting them.

Even with her demanding career, Dottie never stopped adding to her extensive list of hobbies and adventures. She embraced horseback riding, golf, tennis and bridge with enthusiasm. Her annual trips with her beloved girlfriends were legendary, leading to thrilling escapades that ranged from zip-lining in the jungle to parasailing in tropical paradises. Her exquisite beauty and meticulous attention to always looking perfectly “put together” were qualities that never went unnoticed.

Dottie Gebbia lived a life truly to its fullest, filled with purpose, joy and a deep commitment to those she loved. Her indomitable spirit, infectious laughter and enduring kindness will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dottie’s memory to a Parkinson’s research charity of your choice, such as The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or the American Parkinson Disease Association, to support vital research in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.