Dorothy E. ‘Bunny’ FitzGerald, loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, died on Thursday, March 17, 2016, in her 94th year of life.
She was born to Admiral Vance D. and Dorothy Drake Chapline on September 29, 1922. She was married to Richmond D. FitzGerald for 57 years.
She spent most of her adult life in Wilmette, Ill., and Virginia Beach. There, they raised five children in a life full of family, friends and faith. Her later years were spent in Wilmington, where she was lovingly supported by her son, Patrick, and his wonderful wife, Mari Ballinger FitzGerald.
Bunny was preceded in death by her husband, Richmond; her sister, Cheri Everett; daughter, Sharon FitzGerald and her grandson, Jonathan Lusignan.
She was the stepsister and good friend to Frances Hartigan Pearson; dear mother of Pamela (Denis) Lusignan, Martha FitzGerald, Patrick (Mari) FitzGerald and Katharine ‘Kitty’ (Christopher) Lane; and cherished grandmother of Matthew, Nathan and Nicole Lusignan, Garrett and Adam Steinbroner, Ryan, Michael and Callahan FitzGerald and Devin, Patrick and Meredith Lane. She was the proud great-grandmother of Harrison FitzGerald.
Bunny was an engaging mother and friend, known for her positive and optimistic outlook. She was active in volunteer services, enjoyed the arts, especially music, cooking for her friends, enthusiastic for all sports and played golf and bridge. She will be remembered for the legacy of love and commitment she leaves to family and friends alike.
The family would like to thank Sonja Shanley, M.D., her nurse, Cindy Martin, and the faithful caregivers both at the Kempton at Brightmore and Trinity Grove for all their care and concern.
In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, 601 Children’s Lane, Norfolk, VA 23507.
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