Dorothy E. Vienne

VIENNE, Dorothy "Dottie" 1939-2024 of Elma, NY, passed away peacefully in her home on April 3rd, 2024 at the age of 84. Born in Buffalo, NY on May 8th, 1939 to Robert and Bertha Titus; Dottie lived a fulfilled life under the motto "Growing old is inevitable, but growing up is optional." She first attended Brockport and Fredonia State before furthering her education at the University at Buffalo and Canisius College with a Masters degree in Education and Administration. She continued this zest for learning by passing her wisdom onto future generations, serving as both a professor and principal across numerous schools in the area including but not limited to Lancaster Central Schools, the Kenmore School District (where she received the "National School of Excellence" award as principal of Thomas Jefferson and Thomas Edison Elementary School) and the State University at Buffalo. As the National School of Excellence honoree, she was invited to the White House on two occasions to be honored by presidents Clinton and George H.W. Bush. She also served as an educational advisor to the country of Brazil. Dottie married her husband and lifelong companion Richard in 1960, enjoying over 60 years of marriage while deeply involved in the Elma and Lancaster communities as a member of the Lancaster Country Club, the Faith United Methodist church of Lancaster and Elma Methodist. Beyond this, she was very involved in other civic organizations across Western NY. They were avid skiers and accomplished travelers - enjoying over 50 cruises, touring 75+ countries worldwide and visiting all 50 U.S. states. On a paper above her desk found after her passing, she immortalized this approach to live with the handwritten words "Life is an opportunity, avail it. Life is a beauty, admire it." Dottie was preceded in death by her husband and U.S. army veteran Richard Vienne, is survived by her brother Robert Titus, children Dr. Richard Vienne (s. Lauren), Keri Konakanchi (s. Ramesh), her grandchildren Kaitlin (s. Zack), Alex (s. Neeya), Andrew, Roopa, Deepa and 4 great grandchildren. Family, friends, and others whose lives Dottie touched are invited to attend the funeral service held on Saturday, April 13th 2024 at 10am at the Faith United Methodist church located at 5505 Broadway in Lancaster NY. Arrangement by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Southtowns Chapel).