Isabella Dorothy “Dorothy” Alexander

A lifetime of love, advocacy, and service to her community

Isabella Dorothy Alexander, known to most as Dorothy, lived a remarkable life dedicated to her family, her faith, and the care and advocacy of people with disabilities. Her contributions to Vernon and the surrounding community touched countless lives and will continue to be felt for generations.

Dorothy was born in Grandview, Manitoba, on May 25, 1939, to George and Annie Alexander. She was the second oldest of four children, growing up alongside her brothers, Fred and Bill, and her sister, Elsie. When she was a young girl, the family moved to the Hullcar area of British Columbia, where Dorothy grew up and attended Armstrong Elementary School. She went on to complete high school and further education, beginning a lifelong commitment to helping others.

Dorothy became a passionate advocate for people with disabilities, working to ensure they had opportunities to learn, participate, and live with dignity. She played an important role in the early development of services for people with disabilities in Vernon, including serving on the founding board of Venture Training. She also served as principal and head teacher at MySchool, supporting children with disabilities before their integration into the mainstream school system.

As the education system changed and MySchool was no longer needed, Dorothy’s commitment to providing meaningful care continued. In the 1990s, she founded 28th Ave Homes Ltd., driven in large part by her dedication to Scott and Brian, whom she fostered from a young age and continued to care for and represent throughout their adult lives. What began with a deeply personal commitment grew into an organization providing care and support through multiple group homes and care facilities. By 2026, the organization employed more than 110 people.

For more than 60 years, Dorothy advocated for the rights, well-being, and inclusion of people with disabilities. Her legacy cannot be measured by the organizations she helped establish alone, but by the individuals and families who received support, the staff who continue this work, and the community members whose lives were enriched by her dedication.

Above all, Dorothy was a devoted mother and grandmother. She leaves behind her son, Michael; Scott and Brian, whom she fostered and cared for throughout their lives; and her three grandchildren, Annie-Marie, Elsie-Mae, and George. Her love for her family was central to her life, and her enduring commitment to Scott and Brian was a powerful expression of the compassion that guided so much of her work.

Dorothy was also a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she was known and loved by her church community. Her faith was an important part of her life and shaped the values she carried into her relationships with others.

Dorothy will be remembered as a loving mother and grandmother, a devoted friend, a woman of faith, and a determined advocate who worked to make her community a better place for those who needed support most. Her example of service, compassion, and unwavering dedication will live on in the many lives she touched.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Family, friends, community members, and all those wishing to honour Dorothy’s memory are warmly welcome.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-546-7237

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: