Mrs. Doris Evelyn Ward

Celebrating The Life Of Doris Evelyn Ward: AS A DAUGHTER: On September 16, 1934, in Marshall, Texas, the late Oscar Douglas Johnson, Sr. and Austria (Thornton) Johnson welcomed their third child Doris Evelyn (Johnson) Ward. AS A STUDENT: After receiving her high school diploma from Southeastern High School in the Detroit Public Schools at the young age of 16, Doris continued her education and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics, from Wayne State University. Initially Doris was pursuing to become a dietician, but ultimately earned her teaching certificate. AS GOD'S SERVANT: At a very young age, Doris accepted Jesus Christ into her life and remained a devoted Christian throughout. She served as the Director for Christian Education for over 40 years. As well as served decades as the Vacation Bible School Director at Grace C.M.E. Church. In addition, Doris served on Usher Board Number 2 serving as the current President, as well as other positions over the years. On the church district level Doris participated with the Detroit District Usher Board, serving in the previous capacity of treasurer and secretary; and was a Detroit District Layman representative. Lastly, she was a member of a Women's Ministry group. AS A TEACHER: Doris began her teaching career at Breitmeyer Elementary School as a second grade teacher until she became a full time homemaker after the birth of her third child. Later she returned to teaching and was a substitute teacher at Daly Elementary School in the Westwood Community School District. Her dedication of working with and nurturing children as a Sunday school teacher, community tutor, and other endeavors garnered a great appreciation from her students into their adult lives. AS A COMMUNITY ACTIVIST: Doris was passionate in a variety of community organizations over the years. They included National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs (NANBPWC), American Association of University Women (AAUW), Wayne County for Family and Community Education, served on her local PTA Board, was active with both Girl Scouts of America, and Boy Scouts of America. AS A MOTHER FIGURE AND ROLE MODEL: Doris was also adored by her children's friends because of the indelible impression she left. This grew from her involvement as a room mother, safety patrol hot chocolate mother, school lunch Mother aide, and Cub Scouts Den Mother. As her children attended college and entered their professions, close friends formed during those periods, along with earlier periods, were also exposed to her caring way. As a result, her children's long term friendships extended to relationships with her. AS A PERSON: Doris had a quiet, but strong demeanor. Her kind and gentle spirit reflected a positive outlook to all she encountered. Doris had zeal and enthusiasm for her children/grandchildren and their activities whether attending their concerts, performances, sporting events, and every graduation. She was always a constant presence in their lives. Her interests included being an avid reader, sewing clothes for herself and children, travel, music, cooking in which she was an exceptional cook, couponing, watching local city council meetings and school board meetings on TV, and listening to opera. Family Legacy AS A WIFE AND MOTHER: Doris met her husband of 47 years, Albert Abraham, while earning her teaching certificate at Wayne State University. On April 16, 1960, their courtship led to marriage. AS A GRANDMOTHER AND GODMOTHER: Doris cherished her two adoring granddaughters Lauren Anne, Denise Elizabeth, and was blessed with a grandson Mosheshe Camara-Khary Blake. In addition, she was a shining example to her goddaughters Candace Jenkins, Laquisha Cleburne. AS A SISTER: She bids farewell to her two loving sisters Geraldine Abernathy and Gloria Washington who often shared similar characteristics, mannerisms, interests, styles, and enjoyed their time spent together. As well as, brothers-in-laws Thomas Washington and Willie Clyburn, and sister-in-law Ruth Johnson. She is reunited with her late brother Oscar Douglas Johnson, Jr., and late sister-in-law Yvonne Cleburne. AS AN EXTENDED FAMILY MEMBER: Doris leaves a host of endeared cousins, nieces, nephews, and other beloved family and friends.

Mrs. Doris Evelyn Ward

September 16, 1934 - February 27, 2016