Obituary of Petrea Doty Poler

Petrea Doty Poler, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished member of the Rowayton community, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, in the home she built over 60 years ago, just as she wished. She was 90 years old.

Born in Omaha, Nebraska, on September 3, 1934, to Florence and James Doty, Petrea lived a life full of grace, warmth, and unwavering devotion to those around her. She passed from this world surrounded by all her children and family—a reflection of the deep love she gave and received throughout her life.

Petrea was the beloved wife of Michael Avery Poler, who predeceased her in 2020. Their life together was filled with love, laughter, and a deep commitment to family and community.

A passionate gardener, Petrea cultivated not only the vibrant gardens at her home but also lent her time and talent to the Rowayton Gardeners, where she helped beautify public spaces and inspire others through her work. Her gardens were more than plants—they were a reflection of her spirit: patient, nurturing, and full of life.

She was a devoted member of the United Church of Rowayton, lending her voice to the choir for over 40 years. Her music was a joyful expression of her faith and a gift to all who heard it.

She was the loving mother of Peter Allen Sweeny, Christine Cary Sweeny, Catherine Miles Sweeny, and James David Sweeny; and the devoted stepmother to Christine Fleming, Kimberly Poler, Ted Poler, and Tim Poler. She was cherished by her grandchildren—Michael, Petrea, Andrew, Alexander, Eli, William, Georgia, Anna, Reveley, Margaret, Cameron, Henry, Sage, Jae (d. 2018), Taylour, and Charlie—and held a special place in her heart for her great-grandchildren: Keene, Kane, and Ada.

Her life was one of beauty, kindness, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the joy of knowing her. Please join the family and community in celebrating Petrea's life on Saturday, May 24th at 2:00 PM at The United Church of Rowayton, 210 Rowayton Avenue, Rowayton, CT 06853 In lieu of flowers, donations in Petrea's memory may be made to: Rowayton Gardeners Club, P.O. Box 164, Rowayton, CT 06853, rowaytongardeners.org. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.LawrenceFuneralHome.com