Doris Watts Wilson

Doris Watts Wilson, 78, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2020, in Melbourne, Florida. Although her journey from this world to the next began unexpectedly, she left having often expressed satisfaction and gratitude for a life well-lived. Doris was preceded in death by her parents James E. Watts, Sr., and Beatrice G. Watts, beloved husband Milo L. Wilson, Sr., son James E. Hughes, Sr., brother James G. Watts, Jr., nephew Timothy F. Bell, and son-in-law David R. Watkins. She will be dearly missed by her sister Alvah Bell (Harold), children Candice Watkins, Patrick Hughes, and Stephen Hughes, stepchildren Craig Wilson (Marsha), Corinne Holliday (Charles), 13 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, many life-long friends, and cherished “little white dog Gracie.”

Doris was born on September 26, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina. She eventually settled in Bowie, Maryland in the 1960s and spent her winters as a snowbird in Melbourne, Florida. A vivacious, one-of-a-kind woman, Doris was known for her wild and gracious heart, leaving her mark and magic wherever she went. Full of passion and an intellectual curiosity, she was an avid reader and storyteller with an appetite for great conversations on the front porch. She loved to stay informed of world news and discuss current events, as well as work wonders in the kitchen. But more than anything, she loved to give, encourage people and make them laugh. And in that rite, she was supremely successful. She has left a lasting impression on all those who were fortunate enough to love her, and although we are heartbroken to see her go, she has shaped the lives of so many who will surely carry her memory on. Here’s to hoping they have red lipstick in heaven.

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Until then, smile and raise a glass in celebration of Doris’s life and each other; that’s exactly as she would want it.