DORIS JEAN SMALL

A Brief Sketch of Life

Doris Jean Small peacefully departed on Tuesday morning, April 21, 2026. Born on September 2, 1943, in Parma, Missouri, she was the daughter of Willie W. and Mary L. Lewis-Washington, both of whom preceded her in passing.

Doris was one of nine children. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Retha Mae Washington, Juanita Cannon, and Doretha Ford; and her brothers, Joe L. “Skeet” Washington and Kenneth R. Washington. She leaves to cherish her memory her   sister, Velma Hall of Olympia, Washington; her sister, Pastor Emma Glenn (Bishop Charles Glenn) of Kokomo, Indiana; and her brother, Willie W. “Bubba” Washington of Kokomo, Indiana.

In the early 1960’s, Doris relocated to Kokomo, Indiana, with her former husband, Alvin Small. From this union, seven children were born: Eugene L. Small; Alvin Small III of Kokomo, Indiana; Valerie F. Thompson (Ray Thompson) of Carthage, Mississippi; LaCynthia A. Small of Kokomo, Indiana; Sabrina J. Small of Round Rock, Texas; Darrin D. Small (Trish Ewing-Small); and Marcus D. Small, both of Kokomo, Indiana. She also leaves behind a twenty-four grandchildren, forty-seven great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Doris was a devoted and active member of Fountain of Life Word & Worship Center. She served on the Mother’s Board, Leader of the Pastor’s Aide, Usher Board, and the Women’s Department.

In her early years, she was employed at Delco Electronics, where she also enjoyed playing on the company softball team. She later retired from Delco in the early 1980’s.

Throughout her life, Doris dedicated herself to her faith, family, and community. Known for her warmth, strength, and vibrant personality, she carried herself with both style and grace in everything she did. She found great joy in cooking, traveling, and spending meaningful time with her loved ones.

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