Dorothy Huddart (née Woods), a trailblazing professional and beloved presence in the lives of many, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, in West Vancouver, British Columbia. She was 99 years old.

Born on July 7, 1926, in Montreal, Quebec, Dorothy’s life spanned nearly a century of remarkable change and progress—much of which she embraced with characteristic intelligence, grace, and determination. From her earliest days, she exhibited a keen mind and a magnetic personality that would carry her through an extraordinary personal and professional journey. Dorothy made history in the 1960s as the first woman accountant at a Royal Bank branch in West Vancouver—a groundbreaking achievement during a time when few women held such positions. Despite facing systemic barriers and watching men be promoted over her, she never let frustration dim her ambition.

While living in Burlington, Ontario, she spotted an ad in The Globe and Mail for a law office management position at a major Toronto law firm. Encouraged to apply, she secured the role and went on to become one of Toronto’s top women executives for over a decade. Her career was marked not only by professional success but also by her ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether speaking with Prime Ministers or hotel staff, Dorothy treated everyone with warmth and respect. Her disarming smile and clear-headed wisdom left lasting impressions on those fortunate enough to know her.

Dorothy’s personal life was equally rich. She married three times—first to Frank, whom she divorced in the 1960s; then to Wray in the 1970s until his passing in 1984; and finally to Jack in the late 1980s until his death in the early 2000s. Each of her husbands adored her deeply, and together they traveled extensively, savoring life’s adventures side by side. After Jack’s passing, Dorothy embraced single life with contentment and independence.

In later years, Dorothy remained intellectually curious and socially engaged. She eagerly adapted to the digital age—learning email on a new laptop—and continued reading voraciously. Novels were her constant companions, fueling her vibrant imagination well into her nineties. She eventually returned to Vancouver to be close to her three children. There, she cultivated deep friendships that endured throughout her life. Her friends cherished her wisdom, humor, and unwavering support—and many stayed connected with her until the very end.

Dorothy's legacy is one of resilience, brilliance, kindness, and joy. Her memory lives on vividly in the hearts of those who knew her—family members who sought her counsel; friends who laughed with her over coffee or correspondence; colleagues who admired her pioneering spirit.

May Dorothy Huddart’s remarkable life continue to inspire all who remember her. Her light shone brightly for nearly a century—and though she is gone from our sight, she remains forever present in our hearts.