MRS. DORIS J. (PETERSON) ENDSLEY

Doris Jean Peterson Endsley, age 94, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion to her family. She was the seventh (first daughter) of twelve children born to Andrew Peterson and Oda Mae Peterson, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husband of twenty-four years, James W. Endsley, and her beloved son, Karlton “Korky” Waters.

A devoted mother and proud matriarch of the Peterson family, Doris Jean was the loving parent of seven children and the heart of a family that now spans four generations—her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Nothing brought her more joy than celebrating the accomplishments of her children and spending time with the many generations that followed. She loved each of them deeply and never missed an opportunity to brag about them.

Doris Jean developed a strong and admirable work ethic early in life. She graduated from Crispus Attucks High School at the age of 16 and soon began a career marked by determination and growth. Over the years, she worked for RCA, United American Insurance, the United States Postal Service, and Block’s Department Store, continually advancing and embracing new opportunities. She later worked for Indiana Bell for more than 20 years, where she built lasting relationships and earned the respect of her colleagues. After retiring, her expertise and dedication were so valued that she returned as a consultant for the company, traveling to places such as Colorado, Arizona, and Texas.

Retirement, however, did not quite suit her energetic spirit. Always wanting to remain active and engaged, she began a second career with Indianapolis Public Schools, where she continued working until retiring again in her seventies.

Though she never drove, that never slowed Doris Jean down. She always found a way to get where she needed to go—either walking or hopping on the Metro bus. She maintained her independence and zest for life well into her late eighties.

Doris Jean was also known for baking her famous rum cakes, which family and friends will never forget—made with love and just enough rum to make sure you knew it was there.

Doris Jean was the oldest member and the beloved mother of Good Shepherd Missionary Baptist Church for twenty years.

Above all else, Doris Jean will be remembered for her devotion to family, her hardworking spirit, her beautiful hat collection, her love of crossword puzzles, chicken wings, and peppermints, her independence, and the warmth she shared with everyone around her. Her life touched many, and her legacy will continue through the generations she loved so dearly.

Doris Jean Peterson Endsley departed her earthly life on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the age of 94. She leaves to cherish her memory six children: Francis Caudle of Indianapolis (Brenda), Karen Waters Huffman of Bowling Green, Kentucky (William), Carolyn Waters Payton of Indianapolis (James), Terri Waters Woodson of Atlanta, Georgia (Michael), Irish “Jerry” Waters of Lafayette, Indiana, and Kara Endsley Vines of Morrisville, North Carolina (Houston).

She is also survived by three siblings: Geraldine Peterson Hillman (Roger), Charles Peterson, Sr., and Mary Peterson Stennis, all of Indianapolis, Indiana.

Doris Jean was also blessed with twelve grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will cherish her memory.

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