Dorothy Mary Episcopia

Dorothy Mary Episcopia of Rockville Centre and Garden City, New York, passed away on March 12, 2026. Born in Brooklyn in 1945 to Walter H. Awe, Sr. and Dorothy Awe, she grew up in Mineola after her family settled there. She graduated from Mineola High School and went on to earn her degree from Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts, in 1967. In 1970 she married Nicholas Episcopia, and the couple made their home in Garden City, where they lived for 45 years.

Fluent in French, Dorothy had a deep appreciation for art history, singing, and painting. Those who knew her admired her remarkable dedication to every endeavor she undertook. For more than four decades she gave generously of her time and talent to the Garden City community, serving as president of the Eastern Property Owners’ Association, a member of the Mayor’s Committee to Monitor Development Outside of Garden City, and a participant in numerous educational and civic initiatives. She was appointed to the first Long Range Facilities Planning Committee by the Garden City Board of Education, served as founding co-chair of the district’s Arts-in-Education program, and held leadership roles with the PTA. In 2011 she was named one of New York State’s “Women of Distinction” by Assemblyman Thomas McKevitt in recognition of her many contributions. Later in life, Dorothy and Nicholas moved to Rockville Centre, where she became deeply involved at St. Anthony’s Church in Oceanside, serving as recording secretary for the Ladies Auxiliary of the Knights of Columbus and as a dedicated lector.

Dorothy is survived by her husband Nicholas, her children Jennifer O’Hanlon (Peter) and Gregory (Briana), and her cherished grandchildren Timmy, Michael, Katherine, Elizabeth, and Henry. She was predeceased by her parents Walter H. Awe, Sr. and Dorothy Awe, her brother Walter H. Awe, Jr., and Eileen Awe Hupp.