Dorothy Loraine Gregory

Dorothy Loraine Gregory was called home by our heavenly Father on Monday, November 28, 2016 at the age of 87.

This beloved wife and mother was born on February 28, 1929 to Barney and Elsie Barkley in Ellensburg, WA, one of two children. She graduated from Ellensburg High School, attended Griffin School of Business in Seattle and after graduation, went to work for Pacific Power and Light in Sunnyside, WA. She went on to work for the Boeing Company and retired in 1989 after more than 30 years of service. Dorothy was a 50-year member and Past Worthy Matron of Tyee Chapter #122, Order of the Eastern Star, Renton, WA.

In December 1948, Dorothy married Gene Gregory in Ellensburg, WA. Their mothers worked together and they came to know each other when they were young children. Settling in Renton, WA, their union brought four children into the world: Cindy, Lynn, Randy, and Dana. Dorothy was the keystone of her family, from typing for Gene to sewing badges on uniforms for her sons to finding the perfect prom dress for her daughter, Dorothy did it all. Dorothy and Gene were also a gift to each other. Gene adored Dorothy. And Dorothy claimed Gene was her “Rock of Gibraltar”. Throughout their 64 years of marriage, they proved how strong their love truly was for one another.

Dorothy enjoyed many aspects of life, including gatherings with the family, gardening, bowling, square dancing, puzzles, games, travelling in her fifth wheel with the love of her life and often a furry companion, and watching Shirley Temple movies and animal documentaries. Dorothy loved to read and, as years went by, loved to have others read to her. She had a gift for crafts, especially plastic canvas. Give her a challenge and she made your wish come true. Many of her hand-made items were sold at Grand Chapters, OES, and at local OES Chapter bazaars. Dorothy would also crochet beautiful baby items to help support the homeless. Most importantly, the highlight of her life was spending time with her family.

Dorothy was known for her special gifts: her endearing love for Gene and her family; her love and warmth for others in need; her beautiful and playful smile that made you laugh while in her presence; a most sincere, caring, and helpful volunteer with whatever needed to be done. Dorothy and Gene were loved and surrounded by so many family members and good friends.

Until a few days before her passing, Dorothy was able to joke and laugh with us. She was a loving wife, a wonderful mother, and a good friend to so many.

Dorothy is survived by her sister Shirley Spencer, her children, her grandchildren, her great-grandchildren, and, oh, so many nieces and nephews that loved her dearly.

Dorothy was preceded in passing by her mother, her father, and her husband Gene.

The family extends a warm invitation to join with them for a “Celebration of Life” and reception for Dorothy on Friday, December 23, 2016, 4:00pm at the St. Andrews Masonic Temple, 505 Williams Ave S, Renton, WA 98055. An Eastern Star Memorial will be given during this celebration. Memorial contributions may be made to The National Kidney Foundation.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. ~Psalm 23.