Dora Lee Frantz (nee Elliott) age 86 of Hammonton, NJ passed away peacefully November 25, 2025 at her home with her family by her side. She devoted her life to kindness, learning, and simple joys that brought happiness to everyone around her.

Dora Lee was born in Camden, NJ, and graduated from Hammonton High School in 1957. She then went on to receive her Bachelor in Education from Glassboro State College. A beloved first-grade teacher for 38 years, she touched countless young lives with her patience, creativity, and unwavering belief in every child's potential. Her classroom was a place of encouragement and discovery, and her legacy lives on in the many students who remember her with affection and gratitude.

She had a passion for ceramics and enjoyed the time and artistry that went into each piece she created. She also loved taking bus trips to the casinos, where she delighted in the adventure and the company of friends. A dedicated community member, she proudly participated in several organizations, including the Lions Club, always giving her time and heart to causes that mattered.

A true fan of football, she cheered faithfully for the Hammonton Blue Devils and Philadelphia Eagles. She also enjoyed playing computer games and spent many peaceful hours reading during earlier years. Music was another lifelong joy-she played the piano beautifully. Visitors often recall the sound of her music filling the house before they even reached the door. Her love for animals was evident in the way that she cared for stray cats near her home, faithfully providing them with food and shelter.

She is predeceased by her husband Coach Karl Frantz and parents Dr. Frasier and Emma Hand Elliott.

Dora Lee is survived by her two sons, Dr. Frasier Frantz and his wife Stephanie of Richmond, VA, and Michael Frantz and his wife Patti of Hammonton, NJ.

She will be sadly missed by her grandchildren Karl (Caroline), Emi Lee (Nida), Jenna, CJ, Jake, Elizabeth, and McKenzie Frantz, Anthony, Amilee, and Ava Chiofalo and her great grandchildren Lena, Bennett, Bradley, and Van.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing Friday, December 5, 2025 from 9:00-11:00am at the Marinella Funeral Home 102 N. Third Street Hammonton, NJ. Funeral services will be held at 11:00am at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Greenmount Cemetery 124 S 1st Rd. Hammonton, NJ 08037.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dora Lee's memory to the Hammonton Education Foundation, PO Box 552, Hammonton, NJ.