PORTLAND — Alice Conway, 51, of Auburn, died May 12.

She was born July 31, 1960, daughter of Fred and Marlene Dyer. She overcame many challenges related to spina bifida.

Alice was a nationally known advocate who strived to make change at the policy level. Alice freely opened her home to many children. She loved being a mother and was fiercely proud of her son, Richard.

Alice lived a happy, peaceful and independent life, as she always dreamed and wished, bringing joy and peace to calm others in many difficult situations. Alice always gave back more than she received, and those who came to help Alice always left with a warmer heart, a greater sense of peace, and a broader capacity to give.

She referred to herself as an “independent living specialist,” but lived life as a groundbreaking advocate for equal rights for people with disabilities, as an educator, as a counselor, and as a mentor to many.

Alice is survived by Dean Conway, life partner; Richard Conway, her son; and siblings Fred Dyer, Sarah Dyer, Vickie Dunning and Bill Dyer.