Doris J. Berry Smith, age 81, peacefully transitioned from labor to reward on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on July 10, 1944, in Tippo, Mississippi, to the late Willie Scurlock and Mozella Green, Doris lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service. On December 27, 1974, she united in marriage with Joe Smith, Sr., and together they built a loving home filled with laughter, wisdom, and strength.

Doris dedicated more than three decades of her career to Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, Illinois, where she faithfully served from 1971 until her retirement in 2004. Her compassion for others extended beyond her profession—she served as a licensed daycare provider and as a devoted foster parent, providing care and guidance to children throughout central Illinois. Later, she continued her work ethic and commitment to service with First Student.

A devoted woman of faith, Doris was a proud member of Victory Temple Church of God in Christ, where she served faithfully in the Mother’s Ministry. She found great joy in worship, prayer, and supporting others in their spiritual walk.

Doris was blessed with a large and loving family. She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Barbara Curry, Leon Berry, Alan Berry, Joe (Dina) Smith, Jr., Marc (Faith) Smith, Sr., David Smith, Devente Smith, Antonio Smith, and Dereck Smith.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Kenny Berry (four children), Jimmy Rice III, Doris Rice Masseke-Harvey (three children), Tyeisha Young, Alan M. Berry II (four children), Felicia A. Berry (one child), the late Felice N. Berry, Keitihon T. Berry (three children), Christopher D. Berry (5 children), India Smith, Erica Smith, Marc Smith Jr., Kaileigh Smith, Correan Young, Sierra Smith, and David Smith Jr.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Willie Scurlock and Mozella Green; brothers, James L. Robinson, Milton Green, Van Housley, and John Green; and sister, Nellie Crowder.

Doris is lovingly remembered by her surviving siblings: sisters, Lois Slater (Chicago), Nancy (Johnny) Adams (Mississippi), Clara Henry (Springfield), Verna (George) Thompson (Springfield), and Theresa (Ron) Parker (Omaha, Nebraska); and brothers Willie (Shirley) Housley, Melvin (Martha) Green, Dennis Green (Springfield), and Michael (Denise) Green (Springfield).

She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, extended family, and dear friends who were all blessed by her kindness, faith, and unwavering love.

Doris’ life was a beautiful reflection of service, strength, and grace. Her gentle spirit, warm heart, and steadfast devotion to her family and faith will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.