Dorothy Rae Anderson

Dorothy Rae Anderson, age 94, of Hastings, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She was born on June 13, 1932, in Lansing, Michigan, to Raphael Vern Carter and Lucille Dorthea (Weber) Carter.

Dorothy graduated from Lansing Sexton High School with the Class of 1950. In 1951, she married the love of her life, Douglas Anderson. They shared nearly 40 wonderful years together until Douglas's passing in 1990.

Dorothy devoted many years to serving her community. She volunteered for 15 years in the gift shop at Pennock Hospital and spent 27 years in food service at Hastings Middle School. She was also a familiar face at Hastings High School athletic events, where she enjoyed selling tickets and greeting generations of students, families, and fans.

A faithful member of First Presbyterian Church of Hastings for over 70 years, Dorothy lived a life centered on faith, friendship, and service. She cherished her weekly neighborhood bridge club, looked forward to breakfast gatherings with her church friends, and generously volunteered for countless community activities, including assisting with local elections.

Dorothy found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved taking walks, listening to music, attending plays and concerts, holding season tickets to both the Grand Rapids Symphony and The Barn Theatre. She enjoyed lively games of bridge and cribbage with friends and was happiest in the kitchen, especially when baking Christmas cookies and her beloved four-layer chocolate birthday cake for family celebrations. A talented pianist, she often provided accompaniment for family gatherings, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Douglas Anderson; and her brother, Ralph (Marilyn) Carter.

Dorothy is lovingly remembered by her children, David (JoEllen) Anderson, Donald (Kim) Anderson, Brian (Ginny) Anderson, and Bruce (Dana) Anderson; her 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hastings Public Library, Attn: Library Director, 227 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, or online at https://www.hastingspubliclibrary.org/about-us/support-hpl/ways-to-give-1

Funeral services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Following the service, Dorothy will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Douglas, at Riverside Cemetery, with a luncheon to follow at Walldorff Brew & Pub Ball Room on the 3rd floor. 

Special thanks to the wonderful people at Faith Hospice and Sunrise of Cascade. Services provided by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfunerahome.net.