Obituaries

Dorothy “Dottie” Zdinak

DOROTHY “DOTTIE” ZDINAK, 80, of Weirton, WV passed away peacefully on Friday, February 7, 2025, at Catherine’s Care Center in Steubenville, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on February 5, 1945, she was a beloved daughter of Thomas and Dorothy Smith Jones. From an early age, Dottie was destined to shine. At just two years old, she was affectionately named the “Air Force Queen”, a title that hinted at the grace and poise she would carry throughout her life. A proud 1963 graduate of Weir High School, Dottie left an indelible mark on her alma mater. She was a dedicated member of the Weir High Band, which took part in some of the most prestigious events of its time, including President John F. Kennedy’s Inauguration, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Rose Bowl Parade, and a special trip to Holland. Her school spirit and charm led her to be crowned Weir High’s Homecoming Queen in 1963, a title she cherished. She and her daughter Dawn shared a unique honor as the first mother-daughter Weir High Band Queens, a testament to their deep-rooted love for their school and community. Dottie’s love for people and her warm personality extended beyond her school days. She was a devoted member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, forming lifelong friendships and participating in meaningful service to others. Many in the community knew her as the Photo Manager at Eckerd Pharmacy, where she took pride in preserving memories for others for decades. A dedicated mother and grandmother, Dottie never missed a moment of her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and band performances. She found immeasurable joy in watching them grow, always their loudest cheerleader. Every Wednesday, she made the cherished trip to her son Larry’s home to watch her grandchildren, bringing cinnamon rolls and other goodies for them, a simple tradition that filled their hearts with love and anticipation. Dottie and her loving husband, Larry, shared a beautiful life together, enjoying the simple pleasure of staying home and embracing the comfort of family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, devotion, and unwavering love for those she held dear. In addition to her parents, Dottie was preceded in death by her husband Larry, who passed away on January 19, 2022. Left to cherish her memory with love and admiration are her children, daughter Dawn (Kathleen Billie) Zdinak of Weirton, son Larry (Nikki) Zdinak of McDonald, PA, granddaughters Averi, Adyson, and Aleigh Zdinak, sister Debbie Jones Seifert, nephew Ray (Kate) Seifert, niece Wendy Seifert Cutright, and great-nephews Dakota and Silas Cutright. The family would like to give special thanks to the staffs of Catherine’s Care Center and Valley Hospice for the care and special treatment provided throughout the years. Visitation for family and friends was held on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, Weirton. Additional visitation will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025 from 10 a.m. until the time of her 11 a.m. funeral service. Elder Roger Criss will officiate. Entombment will follow at St. Paul’s Cemetery, Weirton. Memorial contributions may be made to The Stroke Foundation or the American Cancer Society.