Dorothy Pyne

Dorothy Jean Pyne (Scagnelli), lovingly known as Dottie, passed away Aug. 6, 2025. She was born Nov. 2, 1939, in Framingham to Paul and Dorothy (Keogh) Scagnelli. Raised in Ashland, she graduated in 1957 from Ashland High School, where she enjoyed being a cheerleader. She went on to earn her associate degree from Fisher College.

Dottie retired from the Hopkinton school system, where she served with dedication as the payroll and benefits administrator. Her commitment to her work was matched only by the love and care she poured into her family and community.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years, Henry Arthur Pyne of Hopkinton, and their beloved children and spouses, Jeffrey and Cheryl Pyne of Hopkinton, David and Donna Pyne of Ashland, and Patricia and Michael Zepf of Hopkinton.

She was the proud grandmother, lovingly known as “Mimi,” to Heather Pyne, Daniel Pyne (Melissa), Randy Pyne (Victoria), Marissa Tye (Chad), Sean Pyne (Kathleen), Kelsey Zepf (Colin), Haley Semnoski (Jon), Jaimey Zepf, Brian Pyne, Tyler Pyne and Jordan Pyne.

She also was the cherished great-grandmother of 11.

Dottie was predeceased by her brother-in-law, Francis Pyne, and is survived by her sister-in-law, Phyllis (Burr) Pyne, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Though born an only child, Dottie became the heart and matriarch of a large and thriving family, guiding each generation with grace, warmth, love and strength.

Dottie’s radiant smile, positive outlook and boundless generosity touched the lives of everyone who had the joy of knowing her. A gifted cook and baker, she was always ready to share her delicious meals and baked goods with anyone going through a difficult time — often without ever being asked.

She deeply cherished family traditions like the annual Fourth of July lobster and clam bakes at York Beach, Maine, and cruises and trips to Canada with her beloved husband.

An avid reader and skilled knitter, Dottie lovingly crafted countless blankets for her grandchildren — and even for future great-grandchildren yet to be born. In her spare time, she volunteered at Beaumont Nursing Home, where she read regularly to a blind resident, offering quiet, compassionate companionship that reflected her true character. She was actively involved at St. John’s Church in Hopkinton with her many friends and offering her assistance with annual rummage sales.

Dottie lived a life rooted in love, service and joy. Her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched — as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, friend and community member.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

A funeral service will be held Friday Aug. 15, at 11 a.m. in the chapel of the Matarese Funeral Home, Ashland. Visiting hours will be held Thursday, Aug. 14, from 4-7 p.m. in the funeral home.

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