Dorothy Keays

Dorothy Isabelle Keays, affectionately known as Dotti, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, in Eugene, Oregon, at the age of 98.

Born on July 12, 1926 in Sydney, Nova Scotia to Claude and Lillian Rateau, Dorothy lived a long and vibrant life. Preceded in death by her parents and 7 siblings: Claude, Madeleine, Jacques, Clarence, Marjorie, Mary, and Edna; she also was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pressly, in 2005.

Dotti relocated from Canada to Southern California and there, raised her son Bill as a single mom. She met the love of her life, Pressly Keays, some years later in Los Angeles. They married in 1963, and, in 1976, they drove nearly 1,000 miles north in a converted school bus to relocate to McKenzie Bridge, Oregon. Once there, they cultivated a life full of fun, love, family and friendships, sprinkled with gardening, cooking, socializing and decorating.

She was known for her warmth, wisdom, and the joy she brought to those around her. Her presence lit up every room she entered, and her spirit left a lasting impression. Ever an open ear, she always had the best stories and anecdotes. Alas, too many to list here, but anyone who knew her surely has a different one to recount.

Dotti was a dear friend to many, close confidant to a select few. Anyone who had the pleasure to know her well was given a rare gift indeed. She will be dearly and profoundly missed by many who loved her very much.

Dotti is survived by her son William (Elizabeth); grandchildren, Jake (Michele), Colin (Lindsey), and Gus (Darby); great-grandchildren, Emily (Luke), Brody, Ollie, Malcolm and Vincent; and numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and her dear house cat, Lily. Dotti was also well known as ‘Nana’ to her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family friends. She exuded Nana type qualities and truly walked the walk. She loved her grandsons deeply, helping to raise and nurture them in many ways. She adored her great-grandchildren and cherished the time she had with them in the last years of her life.

A celebration of Dorothy’s life will be held at the McKenzie Bridge Community Center on July 12, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Friends and community members are invited to gather in remembrance and honor of her remarkable life, and footprint left in the community.

In keeping with causes close to her heart, donations may be made in Dorothy’s memory to Greenhill Humane Society of Eugene, OR, or the World Wildlife Fund.

May her memory bring comfort and inspiration to all who knew her.