Dorothy Sue Serena

Dorothy Sue Serena (nee Jaros) Dorothy Sue Serena, 76, of South Wilmington, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, May 22, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born December 5, 1948, in Joliet, IL, Dorothy was the beloved daughter of Edward and Hazel (nee Brackett) Jaros. On June 7, 1969, she married the love of her life, Monty Serena, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in South Wilmington. Together, they built a home filled with a deep devotion to family. Dorothy’s life was rooted in the joy of togetherness. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A special bond with her daughter led to a treasured tradition of spending Tuesdays together, a ritual that began in the 1990s and never faded. A talented cook who learned from both her mother and mother-in-law, Dorothy found joy in preparing meals that brought her family together. She also enjoyed traveling, especially trips to Arizona and Las Vegas. Her fun-loving personality was reflected in her love of monkeys, which brought her endless delight over the years. Dorothy worked as a waitress for over 30 years, mostly at Gardner Family Restaurant. She was active in her community through the South Wilmington Grade School Mom’s Club and the Firettes. In her younger days, she loved to bowl and was exceptional at it. She also enjoyed country dancing and spent many joyful hours dancing with the Bootkickers. Dorothy is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, Monty Serena; her loving mother, Hazel Jaros; and her cherished children, James A. (Kris) Serena of Morris, IL, and Carla (Craig) Muzzarelli of South Wilmington. She is also survived by her dear siblings, Shirley Hofseth of Chandler, IN, and Edward Jaros of Morris, IL. Dorothy was a proud and loving grandmother to Kristin Serena, Dustyn Muzzarelli, Hannah (Alex) Serena, and Dylan Muzzarelli, and a joyful great-grandmother to Dawson, Veronica, and Thomas. She also leaves behind her beloved grand-critters, Louie, Lynk, and Hazel, who brought her endless companionship and joy. Dorothy was preceded in death by her father, Edward Jaros, and her special brother-in-law, Oly Hofseth. Visitation will be held at R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory in Braidwood, IL on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 10:00am, at the funeral home, with Reverend Stanley Drewniak officiating. Interment will follow at Braceville-Gardner Cemetery in Braceville, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Grundy County Heroes and Helpers. To share memories or offer condolences, please visit Dorothy’s online guestbook at www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes.com or find us on Facebook. R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory 401 E. Main St., Braidwood, 815-458-2336 www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes.com

Dorothy Sue Serena

December 5, 1948 - May 22, 2025

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Dorothy Sue Serena

December 5, 1948 - May 22, 2025

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