Doris Marie Mashburn Mathis, 78, passed away on June 11, 2026.

Born to John Wesley Mashburn and Edith Marie Brewer Mashburn, Doris was a woman of extraordinary strength, perseverance, and faith. As a senior in high school in 1965, she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Despite the challenges that followed, she never allowed her illness to define her life. In 1979, at only 32 years old, she underwent her first knee and hip replacement surgeries, beginning a lifelong journey marked by courage and determination.

Doris’s greatest accomplishment was her fight to survive when many believed she would not. After being told she had only months to live, she faced every obstacle with unwavering resolve and went on to raise her son as a single mother. Her life became a testament to perseverance, faith, and the power of hope.

During one of the most difficult seasons of her illness, a pastor shared Philippians 4:13 with her: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Those words became her life’s verse and sustained her through countless surgeries, hardships, and painful days. Even when her pain became overwhelming, Doris would simply pray and ask God to “back it up a little,” trusting Him to carry her through.

Doris loved history and possessed an amazing memory. She enjoyed sharing stories and facts with those around her and was known for her determination and resilience. Purple was her favorite color, and she carried herself with a quiet strength that inspired everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her son, Kevin Duane Mathis (Anila); her granddaughters, Rachel Mathis and Hannah Mathis; her sisters, Shirley Lewis, Kathy Sisco (Jerry), and Donna Dyer (Randy); and her brother, Raymond Mashburn (Sarah).

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Wesley Mashburn and Edith Marie Brewer Mashburn; and her grandparents, Sid and Brunie Brewer and Rosco and Virginia Mashburn.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Alcoa Pines for the compassionate care they provided Doris during the last three and a half years of her life. They also wish to thank the physicians, nurses, emergency room staff, and hospice team at Saline Memorial Hospital for their kindness, care, and support.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Dial & Dudley Funeral Home on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with visitation beginning one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Arthritis Foundation.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

May her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.