Dorothy A. (Munroe) Fanara, 82, of Leroy Drive in Riverside, passed away peacefully on July 2,
2025, at Hope Health Hospice & Palliative Care in Providence, surrounded by the love of her devoted family. Her gentle spirit, unwavering kindness, and deep love for her family will be
cherished forever by those who knew her. Dorothy was the beloved wife and lifelong
companion of Richard J. Fanara Sr., with whom she shared 63 years of marriage.

Born in Barrington to the late Robert B. and Florence (Belfield) Munroe, Dorothy made Riverside
her home for 56 years.

Dorothy lived a life defined by hard work, compassion, and connection. She held various roles
throughout her life—including Cashier at the former Almacs Grocery Store, Assembler at
American Tourister and Nymans, and Waitress at Stanley Greens Restaurant and Riverside
Kitchen. But perhaps her most meaningful role was that of a foster parent, where her boundless
heart found one of its greatest expressions. She opened her home and heart to children in
need, offering them love, safety, and a sense of belonging.

To meet Dorothy was to feel her kindness instantly. She had a remarkable gift for making
strangers feel like lifelong friends. Always ready with a warm smile and a small token of
care—an angel pin or American flag pin to brighten someone’s day—Dorothy’s legacy is one of
quiet, everyday acts of love.

She is survived by her loving husband, Richard; her children, Richard J. Fanara Jr. of Riverside,
Debra J. Ziegelmayer and her husband Kevin of Rehoboth, MA, Paul E. Fanara of Riverside,
and Timothy J. Fanara and his wife Rachel of Riverside; her cherished grandchildren, Kelly Sienko and her husband Bryan, Jenna, Haley, and Zachary; and her precious great-grandchildren, Hunter and Hazel. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. She was the mother of the late Robert J. Fanara, and sister of her late siblings, Robert Munroe Jr., Barbara Webbe, William Munroe, Sandra Lombardi, Donald Munroe, and James Munroe.

Dorothy’s life was one of strength, selfless giving, and deep devotion to family. She will be
remembered always for her kind heart, her thoughtful nature, and the love she gave so freely.
May her memory be a blessing, and may her spirit continue to shine through all who knew and
loved her.

Her Funeral Service will be held on Thursday July 10, 2025 in the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside at 11 a.m. Calling hours are Thursday morning 9-11 a.m. Burial will follow in Forest Chapel Cemetery, Nayatt Road, Barrington.

Flowers are respectfully omitted. Contributions in Dorothy’s memory to Hope Health Hospice & Palliative Care, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904 would be deeply appreciated.