Dorothy J. (Messenger) Davidson, of Melrose, died at the Glen Ridge Nursing Care Center in Medford on Oct. 6, 2012 at the age of 88. Dorothy was born & raised in Everett and attended Everett Schools. She worked as a Unit Secretary at the Malden Hospital for over 20 years before her retirement at the age of 65. Dorothy resided in Melrose for most of her life and she enjoyed quilting, interior design and geneology. She was the beloved wife of the late Ralph W. Davidson. Loving mother of Nancy J. Gately & her husband Paul of Lynn and Wendy J. Douglass & her companion Donal Crawford of Melrose. Cherished grandmother of Jason, Jessica, Douglas, Jeffrey and Grace. Devoted great grandmother of Andre. Sister of the late Donald Messenger and Raymond Messenger. Grandmother in law of Jayra Rivera of Melrose. Also survived by 2 nephews. A Funeral Service will be held at the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Friday Oct. 12th at 12PM. Relatives & friends respectfully invited. Visiting hours prior to the service from 11-12PM. Burial in Glenwood Cemetery, Everett.