Obituary of Dorothea "Thea" Lepre

Dorothea "Thea" R. Lepre, a longtime Morristown resident, passed away at her home on Friday, December 28, 2018, She was 74. 

Thea was born in Morristown on September 24, 1944 to the late August and Reba Lepre. She was raised in Madison and Morris Plains. As an adult, she resided in Toms River before returning to Madison where she raised her family until she relocated back to Morristown several years ago. 

Prior to retiring, Thea was self-employed as an antiques dealer and for a time co-owned and operated an antique shop in Madison. She felt blessed to have the opportunity to turn her love of history, objets d'art and antiquities into travel for her daily business. Thea made many long lasting friendships through the business.

She was also an animal lover and had a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife. Thea spent many hours watching animals in their natural habitat. Her friends and family fondly recall her talent of gaining the trust of squirrels that would eventually rest on her lap in return for peanuts. Thea was an avid gardener that was well known by her friends for her skill in creating beautiful Japanese rock gardens. Thea also was very attentive to her cat, Belle, which she took great care of and loved dearly.

In addition to her parents, Thea was predeceased by her brother, Gary J. Lepre in October of 2018. She is survived by her son, Steven Dentzer and his wife, Kim; her daughter, Dana Dentzer; her brother, Anthony Lepre and his wife, Joyce; her two grandsons, Louie and Jake Dentzer; a nephew, David Lepre and his wife, Antoinette; her step-mother, Zoila Lepre, her former husband, Theodore R. Dentzer; and many dear friends.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a memorial visitation to celebrate Thea's life on Sunday, January 6, 2018 from 3-6 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison. Cremation will be held privately at the family's request.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions in Thea's memory may be made to the Interfaith Food Pantry,  2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains, NJ 07950 or Mount Pleasant Animal Shelter (or your favorite animal shelter).