Dolores ‘Dodie’ Farrence
OBITUARY
Dolores Dodie Farrence, 97, of the Tripp Park section of Scranton died Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the Linwood Nursing & Rehab Center.. She was the widow of Frank Fedge Farrence who died in 2020.
Born in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late James and Ceil Boshinsky Phelps. She was a graduate of Scranton Central High School, and prior to retirement she was employed by JC Penny’s.
Dodie was a legend in her own right. Her zest for living made every moment brighter. She was a woman whose heart overflowed with love, for people, for life and for the simple joy of connection. Her home was never quiet, it buzzed daily with the laughter and chatter of friends and relatives, drawn by her warm welcome and endless hospitality.
She could talk about anything and everything. Her conversations flowed endlessly from the latest fashion and health trends, restaurants and recipes to the thrill of NASCAR – where she would cheer with unbridled passion to current events, dreams of travel, and, most of all, her beloved New York City, the place that captured her spirit like no other. Above everything, her quiet but steadfast love of country shone through in her unwavering optimism.
Dodie was strong, resilient with never ending energy. She always found time to help others whether it was through a kind word, a card, a thoughtful gesture or just being there when someone needed her. She made everyone feel valued and had a way of making every moment feel special, no matter how small.
Life will never be the same without her, but we will cherish the incredible years of memories.
The family expresses their deepest gratitude for the love and unwavering support of their many friends. Dodie’s family would also like to express thanks to the entire extraordinary staff of Linwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the compassionate care provided the last weeks of her life. You truly honored her spirit of love and connection.
Gratitude and special thanks are extended to Kim, Geri, Ana, Kathy and Michelle for always going above and beyond for both Dodie and her family. Your thoughtful acts and your quiet presence brought light and strength when we needed it most.
Surviving are daughters Pam Maiolatesi and husband Richard, Peckville, Wendy Farrence, Scranton; son Jamie Farrence, New Jersey; grandson Justin Harries and wife Gabi, and his mother Peggy Maguire; as well as several nieces and nephews, all of whom she cared for deeply.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday at 10:00 a.m. in St. Stanislaus Polish National Catholic Church, 529 E. Locust St. All attending the Mass are kindly asked to proceed directly to church. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Fisher House Foundation, Inc., a home away from home for Military service members, veterans and families, at 12300 Twinbrook Pkwy, Suite 410, Rockville, MD 20852, or www.fisherhouse.org
Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Solfanelli-Fiorillo Funeral Home Inc., 1030 N. Main Ave., Scranton.
Please visit the funeral home website to leave an online condolence.
Dolores ‘Dodie’ Farrence
March 24, 2026