Doris Mildred Doggett Ford, of Rutherfordton, NC, passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on September 14, 2024 at Rutherford Regional Hospital. She was surrounded by family who absolutely adored her. She was born March 14,1927 in Forest City, NC, the second born daughter of Alton Leroy Doggett & Addie Pearl (Hardin) Doggett.

Doris was a life long resident of Rutherford County, marrying Billy Lewis Ford in 1947, and working many years at Stonecutter Mills. She was a dedicated member of the First Wesleyan Church of Forest City, and served as a Sunday School teacher of the junior class for over 40 years. She was an active participant and  member of the Wesleyan Women's Group for many years, as well.

Doris will forever be remembered by all who knew her as someone with a gentle demeanor. She had a deep love for her church and church family. She was dedicated to all of her family, both immediate and extended. She had the ability to be honest yet kind in all situations. She was someone who lived her life with Jesus in her heart and an eye on the promised land.

Doris felt her greatest accomplishment in life were her two children, Billie and Dean, her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and she was always happy to tell you so.

Doris was predeceased by her beloved husband Billy Lewis Ford; her mother and father; her beloved sisters, Catherine "Cat" Sprouse, Alice Doggett, and Irene Mathis; her son in law, Robert Eugene Dixon; and a grandson, Robbie Dixon. The reunion as they all welcomed her home must have been a sight to see. Also awaiting Doris were numerous cousins and friends that went on before her.

Left to cherish her life and memories are: her daughter, Billie Faye Dixon, Spindale, NC; her son, Dean Lewis Ford (Brenda), Rutherfordton, NC; grandchildren Jeff Faulkner (Rebecca), Rutherfordton, NC; Jeanna Ford Read (Pat), Gautier, Mississippi; Chris Dixon (Mary), Norfolk, Va; Randy Dixon (Amy), Bostic, NC; great grandchildren Parker, Cassie, Emily, Colt, Klayton, Chloe, Abbi, Mason, Patrick and Jamie; a cherished family friend, Paulette Hutchins; a special cousin, Dorothy "Dot" DeBrule; and nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation for friends and family will be held Monday, September 16, 2024 from 6-8pm at McMahan's Funeral Home in Rutherfordton, NC. A funeral service honoring her life will be held at the First Wesleyan Church (700 S. Church Street, Forest City, NC) at 2 pm on Tuesday, September 17, 2024. The body is to lie in state for 30 minutes prior to the service, and interment will follow at Rutherfordton City Cemetery. Memorials may be made to First Wesleyan Church, 700 S. Church St. Forest City, NC 28043. McMahan's Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.