Dorothy Ross, beloved grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully in her sleep this May of 2026 after gracefully withstanding Parkinson’s for almost 20 years. Her curiosity, optimism, and love made the world a better place.

Dorothy grew up in a close-knit and colorful extended Bronx family. After moving west, she and her adoring husband Bill created a loving home. They were enthusiastically supportive of their children’s education, athletics, hobbies, pets, etc. Around Dorothy, there was always laughter and song.

With an incredibly strong work ethic, Dorothy was a top-tier executive secretary in New York advertising agencies and at the University of California. She lent her organizational expertise to many groups including Tahoe Parent Preschool, Davis Youth Tennis League, Amarillo Hospice, and Parkinson’s Support. Dorothy jumped into projects, making them both productive and fun.

Dorothy’s adventures abroad were cherished chapters of her life—North America by RV, Europe by train, Africa by plane, and the Galapagos Islands by boat. She also treasured the shared passion for literacy she found in her book group, writing circle, and memoir class. Above all, Dorothy was dedicated to forming connections with people.

For almost two decades, Dorothy threw everything she had at Parkinson’s— boxing, singing, dancing, drumming, etc.— inspiring us with her resilience and grace. When her devoted husband of 58 years passed, she was generously welcomed into the loving, lively house of Sheila and Tod until requiring the skills of compassionate professionals in a retirement home.

While we must now let Dorothy rest, we are grateful for her glorious gift of friendship and her legacy of embracing life. May she join her husband, her son, and many other loved ones in a joyous everlasting reunion. Dorothy’s lovely light will continue to shine brightly through those she influenced including her friends and family—-brother, sisters-in-law, daughters, sons-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.