Dorothy Ann (Mazza) Corson, 80, Middletown, passed away peacefully in her sleep Oct. 10, 2023. Born and raised in Red Bank, she graduated from Red Bank High School and then attended Asbury Park Business School. Dorothy married her high school sweetheart, Garrett (Gary), in 1961 and they recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary. She worked in the clerical department at Fort Monmouth until 1965 when she began her family.
In 1980, Dorothy returned to the workforce at Fort Monmouth, working in the Army Community Services Department. Her dedication, commitment and professionalism earned her the position of Director of Army Community Services. Upon her retirement in 2003, she was awarded the Commander’s Award for Civilian Services as Chief of Army Community Services.
A proud parent of her children, Joe and Audra, Dorothy was an enthusiastic supporter of the Monmouth Regional Falcons. She supported her children, attending football, wrestling, tennis, basketball, and track and field events. Dorothy also attended her daughter’s college athletic events. The Falcons continued to have Dorothy in the stands, watching as her daughter coached multiple teams. In addition, when her grandchildren became involved in sports and activities, Dorothy was, of course, there cheering them on.
As a resident of Red Bank, Dorothy served as president of Westside Hose Ladies Auxiliary while her husband was fire chief of the Red Bank Fire Department. Dorothy was also involved in planning and organizing some of her class reunions. She maintained close friendships with high school, childhood and work friends, and will be missed by all who knew her.
Always a lover of animals, she had numerous dogs and two cats throughout her life. Dorothy supported many animal causes. Her favorite activities included crafting, reading and traveling.
Time with her family is what she cherished most. Family traditions from her upbringing continued with her own family; family dinners, celebrating special occasions and holidays always brought her joy.
Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, Joseph J. Mazza and Tillie DiFiore Mazza; her sister Judith J. Woodward; and brother-in-law Charles K. Woodward Jr.
She is survived by her husband Garrett A. Corson; her son Joseph Garrett Corson (wife Dawn); her daughter Audra Marie Corson (wife Sheila); grandchildren Rebecca (Becky), Joseph and Salvetore; niece Debora Woodward Hemschoot; and nephews Charles Brett Woodward (wife Alexandra) and David Joseph Woodward (wife Jennifer). In addition, she has seven great-nieces/nephews and nine great-great-nieces/nephews.
Visitation was Oct. 13 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A Celebration of Life Service was held Oct. 14 at Thompson Memorial Home. Burial followed at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Middletown. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to 3Hearts 4Paws Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 482, Morganville, NJ 07751 or 3hearts4paws.com.
This article originally appeared in the October 19 – 25, 2023 print edition of The Two River Times.
