Doris Jean Merritt's Obituary
Doris Jean Merritt, age 90, passed away on Friday, November 29, 2024.
She is survived by her husband of 71 years Thomas O. Merritt; children Mary Ann (Don) Hollis, Jeanne (Jimmy) King, Kathleen (Ken) Mandrier, and Daniel Merritt; 26 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren; siblings Karen Moore, and Jennifer (Douglas) Weimer; sister-in-laws Karen Kemper and Lenore "Chic" Gilchrist; also survived by many extended nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Marie Kemper, and siblings Janet (the late Steven) Lugares, Thomas (the late Sandra) Kemper and brother Alan Kemper.
Born and raised in McKeesport, Doris was a proud graduate of St. Peters High School, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with faith and community service. She carried her passion for helping others into her professional life, working diligently at Solar Refractory Inc. and later sharing her creative talents at JK Custom Sewing. Doris's work ethic and commitment to excellence were evident in every task she undertook.
Doris's academic pursuits led her to achieve what she fondly called her "PhD in homemaking," a testament to her devotion to family and home life. She was a cornerstone of the Holy Spirit Church, where she was not only one of the founding members but also served with joy in the choir and as a eucharistic minister. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, inspiring many within her family and community.
Her zest for life extended beyond her church and work. Doris was an avid bowler, an enthusiastic skier, and loved boating on Lake Erie. Her adventurous spirit was matched only by her love for her neighborhood and the people within it. Doris's presence was a source of joy at every gathering, and her absence will be deeply felt.
Doris's life was a beautiful tapestry of service, friendship, and love. Her memory will be treasured, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her.
Friends and family will be received from 2-4pm and 6-8pm on Monday, December 2, 2024 at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, Inc., 301 Curry Hollow Road, Pleasant Hills, PA, 15236.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10am on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at St. Thomas A' Becket Roman Catholic Church - Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish, 139 Gill Hall Rd, Clairton, PA 15025.
Burial will be handled by Jefferson Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Food Bank at St. Elizabeth Church, 1 Grove Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
Online condolences can be made at jeffersonmemorial.com.
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