BONGHI
Dorothy Joan “Dot” Bonghi (née Emery), age 90, of Havertown, Pennsylvania, was born on May 10, 1935, and passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Bonghi, Sr.; her daughter, Sherri Lynn Bonghi; and her parents, Sarah (née Gable) and Lawrence Emery.
A devoted and loving mother, Dorothy is survived by her sons, Francis “Chip” Bonghi and Leonard Bonghi, Jr. She is also survived by her siblings, Larry Emery and Joy Fink, along with extended family and friends who were touched by her warmth and generous spirit.
Dorothy had a true eye for beauty and possibility. She loved thrifting and garage sales, delighting in turning what others overlooked into treasured finds. An avid gardener, she had a remarkable ability to nurture any plant and took great joy in watching things grow and thrive. She especially enjoyed working in her backyard garden and tending her yard. Dorothy also had a lifelong love of automobiles; she was once a proud member of an automobile club and even judged car shows, combining her keen eye with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship.
Professionally, Dorothy was the ultimate homemaker and later worked for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue and Dun & Bradstreet, where she was known for her dedication and strong work ethic.
At the age of 72, Dorothy embraced a new chapter in life when she moved to California to be with her companion, Tom Civitello. The final 18 years of her life were spent joyfully traveling with Tom and his guide dog, remaining active in the Pinole Garden Club, and participating in the community and fellowship of The El Sobrante United Methodist Church.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Thursday, February 19th, from 12:00 Noon to 12:45 PM, followed by her Memorial Service at 1:00 PM in the Main Chapel at D’Anjolell Memorial Home of Broomall, 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall, PA 19008. Inurnment will be private.
Dorothy will be remembered for her nurturing heart, her adventurous spirit, and her ability to find beauty, purpose, and joy in everyday life.
Live stream link: https://www.twitch.tv/danjolellmh?sr=a
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