Dorothy Marie Jerome

Dorothy Marie (Ayotte) Jerome, age 90, of Hugo, MN, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Born on March 18, 1935, in Hibbing, MN, she was the daughter of William and Mary (Povsha) Ayotte.

A proud and resilient "Iron Ranger," Dorothy's early life was a testament to her strength; she successfully overcame a year-long tuberculosis quarantine in a sanatorium, a journey she navigated with a grace that would define the rest of her life. She trained as an X-ray technician and dedicated many years to General Hospital in Minneapolis. It was there, at a gathering for fellow Iron Rangers, that she met the love of her life, Warren "Bud" Jerome. They were wed on August 17, 1963, and shared fifty wonderful years together until his passing in 2013.

Dorothy and Bud raised their family in Roseville before retiring to Vadnais Heights in the 1990s. Dorothy was a fixture at her children's sporting events, always their loudest and most spirited cheerleader. She and Bud shared a love for Northern Minnesota fishing trips, golf, bowling, and bocce ball with their dear friends.

She will be remembered for a gracious demeanor that made everyone feel welcome and a sense of humor that was as quick and mischievous as it was playful. She possessed an uncanny ability to bring "the fun" to any occasion, leaving a trail of laughter wherever she went.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Warren "Bud" Jerome; her parents, William and Mary (Povsha) Ayotte; her three brothers, Bill, John, and Donald "Babe" Ayotte; and Lisa's beloved fiancé, Christopher Brunsoman.

Her legacy lives on through her children: Lisa Newman; Diane (Nick) Barry; and Mark (Sarah) Jerome; and her five grandchildren: Joseph "Joey", Josephine "Jojie", Audrey, William "Will", and Michael "Mikey".

A private family Celebration of Life and Interment will be held at a later date.