Dorothy Maranto Brocato passed away on May 12, 2026 at age 95. She was born in Bossier City, LA, to Joseph Maranto and Mary Provenza Maranto. She attended Bossier Elementary School and graduated from Bossier High School. Dorothy received a Bachelor of Education Degree from Centenary College, Shreveport, LA, and a Masters Degree in Education from University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR.

Dorothy was a fourth-grade elementary school teacher at Allendale School. She retired to be a full-time mother to her two daughters, Mary and Teresa, born of her marriage in 1958 to Enrico Brocato, owner of Brocato’s Restaurant. Dorothy participated in her girls’ activities, serving as a Brownie Leader, library volunteer, PTA member, and member of numerous school committees. She was athletic, so there were family badminton games, bike rides, and softball games for fun.

There was always music playing in Dorothy’s home, and she loved to break out into song or a quick dance. Her friends and family remember her as a good listener, who gave sound advice to many younger folks who stopped by when they needed a friend. Her best advice to us all: “To thine own self be true.” Dorothy loved being “Nana” to her grandchildren Alex and Emily, for whom she provided after-school care when they were young. Her children and grandchildren appreciated her instilling in them the importance of education.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents Joseph Maranto and Mary Provenza Maranto; her brothers Anthony Joseph Maranto, and Joseph Sammie Maranto; her sisters Stella Maranto Webb, Tena Maranto Namie, Mary Maranto Jones, Josephine Maranto Miller, Rosina Maranto Williams, and Angeline Maranto D’Anna.

Dorothy is survived by her daughters Mary Brocato Serra (David) and Teresa Brocato, grandson Alexander Gras (Grace) of Dallas, TX, granddaughter Emily Gras, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff of Cypress House at Village Health Care at The Glen, and Lifepath Hospice for the loving care they provided Dorothy during her final months.

Dorothy’s family honored her with a private service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105, or the charity of your choice.