Dorothy Brier, 93

NEW YORK, N.Y. – Dorothy A. Brier died on May 12, 2023, at her home in New York City. She was born and raised in Providence, the daughter of Benjamin and Florence (Genensky) Brier. Dorothy was predeceased by her siblings, Shirley B. Lewis and Milton I. Brier, and her stepsister, Phyllis R. Berry. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Zita G. Brier, and her many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends with whom she maintained a long and loving relationship.

Dorothy was a graduate of Radcliffe College and Smith College of Social Work. She spent her professional career as a social worker and retired in 1992 as the assistant director of social work at Lenox Hill Hospital.

Upon her retirement, Dorothy became an active volunteer, serving as a docent for the Museum of Natural History and with the American Red Cross Greater New York Region. Dorothy was a pioneer in the field of disaster mental health and established such programs at the Red Cross. She was present at many disasters to provide support, including the 9/11 terror attack and US Airways Flight 1549 “Miracle on the Hudson,” which led to Dorothy’s playing a Red Cross volunteer in the movie “Sully.” She also traveled on behalf of the Red Cross to aid victims of Hurricane Andrew in Florida and the Oklahoma City bombing. Dorothy received numerous awards and much recognition for her 30 years of professional volunteer service to the Red Cross.

Donations may be made to the American Red Cross Greater New York Region, Smith College of Social Work Class of 1954 Scholarship Fund or a charity of your choice.