Dolores V. Chesney

The Obituary

Dolores V. Chesney, affectionately known as “Laurie” and “Mama Dee,” of East Germantown, Philadelphia, passed away on November 27, 2025, at the age of 81. A devoted mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. Dolores will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, her faith, and her boundless love for those around her. 

Born on May 14, 1944, in Philadelphia, PA, to Louis and Lillian Sandoval, Dolores grew up in a household filled with warmth and family values that she carried throughout her life. At 21, she met the love of her life, James J. Chesney, while working at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. Their union blossomed into a beautiful marriage and three beloved children. When James passed in 1975, Dolores faced the tremendous challenge of raising her children alone but did so with unwavering strength and faith in God. 

A pious woman of deep spirituality, Dolores shared her gift of song with the Saint Benedict’s Gospel Choir—the first of its kind in the Philadelphia Archdiocese. A trend setter and always intrigued by new advancements and possibilities. Her angelic voice and joyous tambourine rhythms lifted hearts and filled sanctuaries across the state. She also dedicated more than twenty years of service to Choice Better Cleaners before retiring, always known for her kindness, laughter, and generosity, even in times of her own need. 

Dolores is survived by her loving daughter Sherrie D. Chesney and Daughter and Son in law, Sheila and Martin Nemley,  A grandson, Grand Daughters , Great Grandsons, Nieces and Nephews and a host of extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband James, son Edward T. Chesney, nephew Brandon Milton, sister and brother in law Francesca and Chester Gray, sister and brother in law Dominga and David Goodwin, brother Louis Sandoval, niece Dominga Goodwin Jr., nephews Earl Gray, Brian Gray, and Richard Gray. father Louis Sandoval  and mother Lillian Sandoval.

Submitted With Love,

The Family 

“Let your true beauty come from your inner personality, not a focus on the external. For lasting beauty comes from a gentle and peaceful spirit, which is precious in God’s sight and is much more important than the outward adornment of elaborate hair, jewelry, and fine clothes.”  1 Peter 3:4

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dolores V. Chesney, please visit our floral store.