Dorothy Jane "Dot" Irish October 12, 1937 – August 20, 2026

Dorothy Jane Irish, affectionately known as Dot, passed away peacefully at the age of 88, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family.

Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on October 12, 1937, to Glenn and Edith Snyder, Dot was the youngest in her family and lovingly referred to as "Baby Jane" by her father. As she grew up, her Michigan family shortened her nickname and would simply call her “Jane” for many years to come. She grew up in a warm and loving family, and her life was a testament to strength, kindness, and devotion.

Dot’s journey began in Michigan, where she graduated from Manchester High School in 1955. Driven by a passion to care for others, she attended St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1958. That same year, she embarked on a short but distinguished career in the United States Air Force as a nurse and officer, stationed in Peru, Indiana.

It was here that Dot met the love of her life, Donald E. Irish, at the Officers Club, where fate and a mutual friend brought them together. Dot and Don shared a whirlwind romance and married on December 12, 1959, after Dot chose an honorable discharge to support Don’s military career.

Their love story spanned 66 years and took them across the globe, from Texas to North Dakota, and even Taiwan, before they finally settled in the beautiful landscapes of Maine. In 2000, they embraced the warmth as Florida snowbirds, eventually making it their full-time home in 2020.

Dot's career as a nurse was both vast and impactful, spanning 45 years. She served in emergency rooms across the country before dedicating herself to the care of the elderly. Passionate about her work, she helped establish early assisted living and hospice facilities, culminating her career as the Director of Nursing at Clover Manor in Auburn, Maine. Even after retirement, Dot's commitment to nursing continued through her consultancy work at the Home for Aged Women in Auburn, Maine.

Dot found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Whether it was the beauty of a bright blue sky, a stunning sunrise or sunset, a heartfelt smile, or the delight of a surprise apple fritter, she cherished the world around her. She and Don were avid outdoor enthusiasts, enjoying fishing, boating, and snowmobiling at their camp in Eustis. A lover of cards, Dot relished her weekly Euchre games and shared her competitive spirit in bowling leagues with Don.

Her family was the heart of her world. Dot is survived by her devoted husband, Donald; her children, Ken Irish (wife Connie deceased), Mike Irish, and Kelly Armagost with her husband

Brad; and her step-grandson, Tanner Armagost. She was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews, with a particularly close bond to Brenda Sutton and Lynn Eisenhauer.

She was predeceased by her parents and siblings Leonard Snyder, Kenneth Snyder, Alice Sutton, Helen Creech, Charlie Snyder, Lloyd Snyder, and Larry Snyder. Dot also leaves behind her brother-in-law Stephen Irish and sister-in-law Sandra D'Amour Irish, wife of recently deceased Brian Irish.

Dot's life was marked by her unwavering moral compass, integrity, and humble nature. Her strength and independence were matched only by her compassion and dedication to those she loved. A devoted wife, mother, and friend, Dot's legacy is one of love, simplicity, and profound kindness. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her.

Respecting Dot's wishes, there will not be a formal memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Dot’s memory to a charity of your choice.