Sept. 6, 1935 – May 11, 2026
Woodside, California
Dot Lloyd, a trailblazing entrepreneur, devoted mother, and lifelong adventurer, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at the age of 90. Dot lived a life defined by a fierce competitive spirit, unwavering generosity, and a refusal to sacrifice her independence. Dot lived a life defined by curiosity and a refusal to slow down.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 6, 1935, in Scranton, PA, to Margaret and Edward J. Gruss, Sr., Dot grew up in a lively household alongside her four siblings. Pursuing higher education at a time when many did not, she earned her BA in Teaching from East Stroudsburg, PA, in 1957.
In 1960, she married Robert H.F. Lloyd. Together they moved West, eventually settling in Northern California to raise their three children in Sunnyvale and Woodside. While their marriage later ended in divorce, they remained bound by the family they built together.
A Career in Motion
Dot was a natural leader with a keen business mind. She turned her passion for exploration into a thriving career, founding a travel agency and eventually merging Travel Express into the well-known Woodside Travel. She didn’t just sell trips; she curated experiences, fueled by her own lifelong love for traveling the globe.
Life Beyond the Office
Whether she was on the fairway or at the card table, Dot was a formidable force.
On the Green: A lifelong golfer, she found community on the golf course.
At the Table: She was an elite bridge player, reaching the prestigious “Life Master” level—a testament to her sharp intellect, strategic mind, and dedication to the game.
At Home: After years in Woodside and Half Moon Bay, she spent her later years in Discovery Bay, staying active,independent, and travelling her entire life.
Family and Legacy
Dot’s greatest pride was the family she built and the legacy of strength she leaves behind.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Richard and Edward Jr., and her former husband, Robert H.F. Lloyd.
She is survived by her loving children and their spouses:
Andrew and his wife Valerie
Robin and her husband Josh Norville
Stephen and his wife Jayna
She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Jamie, Aron, Nicole, Megan, Sophie, Kaelee, Madison, and Jason, as well as her sisters, Agnes (Peg) and Christine (Chris).
“To travel is to live, and Dot lived more than most.”
A celebration of Dot’s vibrant life will be held at a later date. In her honor, the family suggests you take a trip, play a round of golf, or enjoy a game of bridge—exactly as Dot would have done.
