Belchertown- Doreen B. Sparling, 96, recently of Christopher Heights, Belchertown, passed away July 4, 2025 after a brief period of declining health. She was born on June 13, 1929 in New Bedford to the late Frank and Ellen (Norris) Sparling.

Doreen graduated from Boston University/Sargeant College and then taught physical education at Dartmouth (MA) High School for 20 years. In 2001 she was inducted into the Dartmouth High Hall of Fame in recognition of her years coaching girls’ sports teams. A dedicated Celtics fan, Doreen also played semi-pro basketball.

After retiring from teaching, she moved to New Hampshire, worked 15 more years, and enjoyed the outdoors. She moved to Northampton in 1996. She met her life partner, Sylvia Howes, and together they made many lifelong friends in the Lesbian community.

In Northampton and later from Worthington, Doreen worked as a building manager for Property Management of Northampton.

She was devoted to her many rescue dogs - dobies and Labs - who were her best buddies.

In 2011 Doreen and Sylvia moved to Farmington, Maine. Together they shared many happy years bicycling, hiking, canoeing, and exploring the country in their camper van with their dog, Niko before returning to western MA in 2020. It was a life well-lived.

Doreen will be dearly missed by Sylvia, her partner of 29 years, family and friends.A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in Doreen's honor may be made to Doberman Rescue Unlimited, 52 Tenney Rd, Sandown, NH 03873 www.dru.org