It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Doris Harvel Laughlin Whitaker Westermann Waldrop on April 6, 2026, at the age of 78 with her three children by her side. Born on May 19, 1947, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Doris lived a life defined by resilience, love, unwavering kindness, and patience. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion and strength that will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Doris was the only daughter of her mother Pearlie Jewell (Pearl Jewel) Taylor Harvel Laughlin and both her biological father Benjamin Franklin (BF) Harvel and adopted father William Terrell Laughlin. Though she was predeceased by all her parents and her cherished husband, Dwain Adrian Whitaker, Doris's indomitable spirit was never dimmed by tragedy. Doris faced the heartbreaking loss of Dwain at age 22, with remarkable courage, choosing to forge her own path with her ten month old daughter, Devonn, by her side. Her journey was a testament to her tenacity and character. In her own words Doris once wrote: “I, Doris J Waldrop, have lived life to the fullest extent possible. My heartaches and loves have made me what I am today.” “Life is what I make of it. Taking things as they come your way and making the best of it will give the personal satisfaction it takes to be happy in this world.” Doris's personal life was a tapestry of rich experiences and relationships. Her marriage to Dwain Whitaker was tragically short, yet filled with deep love. After Dwain's passing, she courageously navigated life's challenges, finding companionship with first Emil Lawrence (Larry) Westermann and then Wesley (Tiny) Waldrop. Through the trials and transitions of relationships, Doris finally discovered true freedom and happiness in her independence—a testament to her indomitable spirit and taking things one day at a time as they came.

Doris's life was enriched by her children: Devonn LaValley and her husband, Butch (Edward), son William Westermann, and daughter Ellen Owens. She also embraced her stepchildren with open arms: daughter Tabatha Waldrop and son Johnny Waldrop and his wife, Missi. Her family was her strength, and she took immense pride in her eight grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her joy.

Her former husbands, Larry Westermann and Tiny Waldrop, remained a part of her world, as did her ex-daughter-in-law, Beverly Westermann, and ex-son-in-law, Brian Owens. Doris's capacity for forgiveness and love knew no bounds, and she cherished the relationships she built throughout her life.

Doris's professional life was marked by loyalty and dedication. A graduate of Robert E. Lee High School in 1965, she held various roles, including bookkeeping at Weiners and later managing the Baytown store of Frame-It, where she forged strong friendships with her colleagues. Her children proudly attributes their strong work ethic to her. She would fight for the right thing and stand beside you as you forged your own path and found out who you are and made your life’s journeys.

A proud Cherokee Indian, Doris embraced her heritage with pride. Along with her love/hate relationships of frogs she had an immense love for dogs; whether as a breeder or simply as her cherished companions. Her love was evident throughout her life her home was always filled with the warmth and joy of their presence.

Doris was a gentle soul whose patience and forgiveness were both her greatest strengths and vulnerabilities. She often chose to see the best in others, even when it meant putting their wants and needs before her own. With the assistance of her dear friend Jeanie Hudson and the support of her children, Doris once again found her voice and discovered the true essence of who she was—a woman of quiet strength and unwavering grace.

As we say goodbye to Doris, we celebrate a life well-lived, a woman who faced adversity with courage and love. Her legacy will live on through her children, they will be reminded of her whether hunting, fishing, reading a book, loving on a pet, deciding on a haircut, eating a piece of lemon meringue pie or a strawberry Bundt cake, riding a motorcycle, driving a car, buying a pair of shoes or simply drinking a coke. They each have treasured stories and shared moments to keep her in their hearts and minds.

A memorial service will be held to honor Doris's life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a local animal shelter in Doris's memory, to continue her lifelong love and care for dogs.Rest in peace, dearest mother. You will be profoundly missed and forever cherished.