Obituary of Loretta R. Dunn

Loretta Rose Dunn, a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and beloved friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 3, 2025, after a short period of declining health. She was 86 years old. Loretta was a proud resident of Burlington for 63 years, having previously lived in Watertown, where her life began.

Born and raised in Watertown, Loretta was the daughter of Frank D’Amico, an Italian immigrant, and Teresa (Zaccagnini) D’Amico, also of Italian heritage. She was raised in a home deeply rooted in Italian traditions and values, which she carried with her throughout her life. A graduate of Watertown High School, Loretta met the love of her life, Francis “Frank” Dunn, during a night out with her girlfriends. The two married in 1959 and, in 1962, settled into their forever home in Burlington, where they would raise their five children.

Loretta dedicated her life to creating a warm, loving home for her family. In just a few short years, she welcomed five children and fully embraced the joys and responsibilities of motherhood. When her children reached high school, she took on temporary work, but her world was centered around her family.

Tragically, Loretta lost her beloved husband Frank to cancer when he was only 51 years old. At just 43, Loretta’s strength and resilience shone through. With three children still in college and one still in high school, she became the family’s provider. She began working full-time at MITRE Corporation as an administrative assistant where she formed lasting friendships and enjoyed a fulfilling career. She retired nearly 30 years later, having earned the admiration of her coworkers and the pride of her family.

Loretta’s love for her children knew no bounds. She was an unwavering supporter—whether in sports, education, or life. She was the ultimate "Hockey Mom" to her three sons and her daughters, always braving freezing rinks, cheering from the stands, celebrating victories, and offering comfort in defeat. Her support extended to their baseball, softball, dance, and figure skating pursuits.

A longtime member of the Burlington Country Club, Loretta was instrumental in founding the swim team there—despite being terrified of water—because her children loved the water. With her dear friend Terry Sullivan, she created opportunities for her children and many others to thrive.

Loretta kept her Italian heritage alive through food, family, and tradition. Her home was the heart of every holiday, where lasagna was always on the table, no matter the occasion. Her cooking and baking were legendary—especially her pumpkin bread, fruit squares, ravioli, and meatballs. Her kitchen was a place of love, laughter, and full hearts.

She was a woman of grace, strength, and quiet wisdom. Her even temperament, perseverance, and unwavering love made her a true role model to her family. She was always there with gentle advice, open arms, and a heart full of unconditional support.

Loretta also cultivated deep, meaningful friendships. She never turned down an invitation and loved to try new things. From golfing and candlepin bowling with her girlfriends, walking with neighbors, attending shows with work friends, or simply catching up over coffee or a phone call—Loretta brought warmth and kindness wherever she went. She was a friend you could always count on.

The last year brought many health challenges, but Loretta faced them with the same quiet strength she had shown all her life. Her legacy of love, loyalty, and family-first devotion will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be forever remembered, deeply missed, and eternally loved.

Loretta was the beloved wife of the late Francis Dunn.  She was the loving mother of Francis Dunn of Cincinnati, OH, Kevin Dunn & his wife Donna of N. Attleboro, Judy Howe of Billerica & her companion Paul Bieren, Steven Dunn & his wife Shannon of Avon, OH, and Cheryl Pray & her husband John of Methuen.  She was the proud grandmother of Maggie Wagner & her husband Shawn, JJ Dunn & his wife Veronica, Molly Dunn, Emily Howe and her partner Michael Learned, Ryan Dunn, Haley Dunn, Madison Dunn, and Brianna Pray & her companion Brian Chavez.  She was the great grandmother of Brooklynn and Brendan Chavez.  She was the sister of Emma Gaeta & her late husband Joe of West Roxbury, the late Peter D’Amico & his surviving wife Patricia of Marshfield, the late John D’Amico & his late wife Teresa, and the late Barbara Howe & her surviving husband Robert of Wilmington.  She was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Monday, May 12 from 4-7pm.  Funeral from the Sullivan Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 13 at 9am.  Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Malachy Church, in St. Veronica Parish, 99 Bedford St., Burlington at 10am.  Services will conclude with a burial at Chestnut Hill Cemetery, Burlington. 

Memorials in Loretta’s name may be made to food bank where she was a long-time volunteer, People Helping People, Inc, 21 Murray Ave., Burlington, MA 01803. 

For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net