Dorothy J. McIsaac

Dorothy McIsaac was born March 15, 1948, in Shreveport Louisiana to her beloved parents Loman and Lillian Bell. Dorothy was the only girl, she had four brothers Clyde, James, Lee Authur, and Robert. As a child, Dorothy attended the elementary school in Bossier City, Louisiana. Her family relocated to Shreveport Louisiana where she graduated from Booker T. Washington high school. After finishing high school, a friend named Berenice Bush convinced Dorothy to move to Seattle Washington. With her two young children Consonya Bell and Christopher McIsaac she decided to move. The purpose of her relocation was to create a better life and more opportunities for her and her children. Dorothy and her two children lived with her friend Berenice for about a year before she purchased her home on 20th and Jefferson were resided for about 50 years. During this time, she met Vance Freeman her common law husband and to this one child was born Lillian MsIsaac.

Over the years Dorothy received many certificates, certifications, and degrees. She also was a black business owner who was a part of the elite entrepreneurial program called the Black Dollar days task force. She attended Seattle Central College where she obtained a certificate as a Sheet Metal Mechanic. Dorothy also attended Renton Technical College where she enrolled in Civil Engineering while also taking data entry courses. After graduating college, she worked at Todd’s shipyard. Unfortunately, due to a job-related injury Dorothy’s career ended at Todd’s shipyard. Never one to be defeated she opened her own business called Our Place Clothing which was clothing mainly for full figured African American women. The business was successful and gave Dorothy the opportunity to become a pilar in the central area community. Unfortunately, the passing of her mother in 1998 and financial difficulties forced her to close her store. Being ambitious and determined as always Dorothy sold clothes out of her home until her health started to decline.

Dorothy was a faithful member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church for 50 years. Under the pastorship of Reverend Robert L. Jeffery. Dorothy was known by her family, church members, and friends as a “DIVA.” One to always be dressed in elegant clothing and flamboyant hats.  Standing on the scripture of Malachi 3:17 Dorothy was a faithful tithed in her church knowing assuredly that God would open the windows of heaven. She had an open-door policy for all her friends and family. Known on 20th and Jefferson for home cooks meals during the holidays, prayer, and laughter. She loved her children and grandchildren unconditional. She was the matriarch of the family, and the glue that held everyone together. Her sense of humor, vibrant, and lively spirit will truly be missed.  

She leaves to cherish her memory two living children Consonya and Lillian and son Christopher McIsaac who passed away May 2020. Grandchildren: Jolawnda Lockett, Victoria Simmons, Jasmyne Ward, and Solomon Taylor and only living sibling Lee Authur Bell of Shreveport Louisiana. Also leaving behind many nieces, and nephews of Louisiana, a host friends, church members, staff members of Swedish Medical Center, the Physicians of the Green Team, Kelly Ross Pharmacy, and people of the central area community.

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