Dorothy “Dody” Perrin, 90, died peacefully at Legend of Allentown May 4, 2025. She was born in Oil City, Venango County, to the late James and Florence (Roberts) Graham.

She attended Allegheny College before graduating from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Nursing in 1957. After graduation, she worked for many years as a nurse and clinical instructor for Oil City Hospital, University Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, and several Baltimore area hospitals. Her marriage brought her to Aberdeen, Md. in 1961 where she raised her family.

She served as a hospice volunteer and in many positions in her local church.

After retirement, she relocated to the Allentown area. She was a participant in the original Harvard Nurses’ Health Study started in 1976.

She was a longtime member of Faith Presbyterian Church in Emmaus.

Above all, she loved her family and friends and enjoyed spending time with them.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary Patricia Fletcher (Matthew); sister, Mary M. Summers (Gary); grandchildren, Lydia, Caroline and Benjamin; nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Marlow D.; brother, James W. Graham.

A memorial service will be held June 3 at Faith Presbyterian Church, 3002 N. Second St., Emmaus. A calling hour will take place 10-11 a.m. followed by the service 11 a.m.

Stephens Funeral Home has been entrusted to handle the arrangements.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the caregivers who not only lovingly cared for her but became friends as well.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of the Nurses’ Health Study, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 263 Huntington Ave., #318, Boston, MA 02115 or Faith Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 507, Emmaus, 18049.