Dorothy Gertrude Alvey

Dorothy Gertrude Miller Alvey

1921-2017

Dorothy was born January 18, 1921 in Evansville Indiana where she lived with her mother and father Prince Albert Miller and Nora Ferrell Miller and her brother John Miller. She was an active member of the Salvation Army in Vandenberg County throughout her childhood where she was mentored by Captain Dolly Bartlett. The ‘Army ‘ became her extended family during her teen years. Her life changed dramatically after she met and married the love of her life Clarence Alvey who predeceased her in 2005. Gock, as he was known to friends and family, asked her to dance at a ‘street dance’ in the neighborhood and it was love at first sight. She frequently told the story at family gatherings and especially to new family members. She converted to Catholicism and raised her children, Clarence Jr., Darryll and Mary, in the Catholic faith. During WWII she worked in the Evansville shipyards as part of the war effort while Clarence Sr. was in the military. After the war she continued to work at various factories including National Furniture where Gock also worked. In 1957 after much soul searching and investigation into jobs, she and Gock moved the family to Southern California to work for Douglas Aircraft, eventually locating in Long Beach where they bought a house and lived until they retired. They lived in Leisure World for many years until her recent move due to health concerns. On April 30th, at age 96, she peacefully passed away surrounded by family and loved ones. Dorothy will be remembered for her southern hospitality, gentile charm and quick wit. She was always ready to tell a joke or repeat a humorous story to any who would listen. She is survived by her 3 children, 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren all of whom visited as often as they could and especially recently during her declining days. She was and is loved by all who knew her.
Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401