Dorothy Carol (Vinci) Kozlowski

Dorothy Carol Kozlowski, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 19 in Atlanta, GA. Born on May 11, 1938, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, Dorothy (Dotty) grew up surrounded by the rich traditions of her Italian heritage, traditions she later wove joyfully into every aspect of her own family’s life.

Dotty was preceded in death by her parents, John J. and Constance E. Vinci, and her brother, Benny J. Vinci, all of Lawrence, MA.

Raised in Lawrence, Dotty married Gerald (Skip) Kozlowski in 1958, and together they raised four children: Jeffrey, Scott, Craig, and Doreen. In 1970, the family moved to Sterling Heights, Michigan, where Dotty dedicated herself to raising her family and creating a home filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable homemade meals.

Dorothy’s life took her many places, including Massachusetts, Hawaii, Michigan, and Georgia. No matter where she lived, she brought with her a joyful spirit and the ability to form lasting friendships. She had a tremendous gift for hospitality, always making room for one more guest and making everyone feel welcome.

Known for her exceptional cooking and creativity, Dotty crafted dishes and desserts from scratch, each one bursting with flavor, artistry, and the deep love that defined her kitchen. She routinely turned leftover odds and ends into delicious works of art. Her home was a gathering place filled with the aroma of fresh-baked treats and the sounds of lively conversation.

Dotty’s artistic flair was expressed not only in the kitchen but also through her love of color and texture. Her home was always a working progress of décor with flowers (always impeccably arranged), house plants (she could grow anything with her two green thumbs), and crafts – whether they be crocheted afghans, painted vases, or simply by changing her surroundings with each season. And in her later years, her form of self-expression turned to coloring—an activity that became a cherished pastime.

Dorothy loved the beach and traveling with family and friends. Whether exploring a new place or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the ocean, she embraced life fully and with an open heart. She worked tirelessly throughout her life, balancing motherhood, work, home, and friendships with grace and devotion.

In her later years, Dorothy faced the challenges of dementia and Alzheimer’s with courage and dignity, supported lovingly by her family and friends. Even as the illness progressed, her gentle spirit, humor, determination, and warmth continued to shine through.

Dorothy is survived by her four children—Jeffrey Kozlowski (Debbie Lassman), Scott Kozlowski (Joanna), Craig Kozlowski, and Doreen Lindquist (Randy); her five cherished grandchildren: Frank, Jerry, Nicole (Cody Sarisky), Elizabeth, and Laura; and her two great-grandchildren, Mason and Abbey. She touched countless lives with her kindness, creativity, and love, and she will be deeply missed.

A private memorial and celebration of life for the family is planned for late April. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dorothy’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.