Doris Fairbanks Passes Away

IN LOVING MEMORY

DORIS PEARL FAIRBANKS

Beloved Mother, Grandmother, Sister

June 3, 1927-September 15, 2016

On September 15, 2016, after a brief illness, Doris passed away at home in Rossville, Kansas. She died peacefully and she was surrounded by her loving family and her loyal pets.

Doris was born on June 3, 1927, in Roswell, New Mexico to Henry and Osie White (nee, Stephens). She was one of fourteen children. Doris married Richard Norris and they moved to Northern California in 1946. Employment opportunities led them to relocate to Southern California. Doris worked as a Certified Nurse’s Aide for over a decade. That marriage ended in divorce.

In 1974 Doris moved to Emmet, Kansas and married Joseph Fairbanks. Together they bought a home in Rossville. Doris and Joe traveled throughout the country and enjoyed their retirement years together. Joe preceded her in death

Doris loved music, especially country western. She played the Violin, Mandolin and guitar. In 1980 she joined two friends and formed a Trio that were billed as “Old Time Fiddlers, Pickers and Singers.” Doris also loved gardening, maintaining her home and the serenity of her small community. A typical day ended with her in a recliner, with popcorn, Pepsi and her dogs, Tatum and Tuffy in her lap. It wouldn’t be complete without her watching a western television program. Life was good!

Doris was preceded in death by three sons: Wendell, Ray and Chuck Norris. Doris was also preceded in death by ten siblings Brothers: Carl, Liniol, Johnny and Henry Jr. Sisters: Versa lee, Ester, Kittie, Ruth, Betty and Helen.

Survivors include, her son, Richard Norris (Carol), Arkansas, and daughter, Margaret Norris of the home. She is also survived by her brother, Dale, Roswell, New Mexico; sisters, Margaret Jo Garrett (Bob), Crescent City, CA. and Betty Jean (Cecil) Gumm, of Titusville, FL.

Doris donated her body to The University of Kansas for the advancement of medical science. A graveside service will be held at a later date, not yet determined. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Humane Society.

Doris loved her country, family and her pets. She was humble, loving and kind. She will be missed, especially, by those who called her Mother.