Doris Word (Lebanon)'s Obituary
Doris Anne (Chestnut) Word, 96, passed away in Dade City, FL on February 5, 2026. She was born on April 15, 1929, in Clay Center, KS, to James Scott and Mary Frances (Woodside) Chestnut.
Doris lived a life marked by devotion to Christ, to her family, and
to every community she called home.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Bill; her niece, Christine; and her beloved husband of 63 years, Leon. She is survived by her children, Tim (Teresa) and Leanne (Laura); three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, her brother, Robert
(Jean); sister-in-law, Faith; and several nieces and a nephew.
Doris was devoted to her family and created a happy home filled with memories that spanned generations. She shared her love of music with her children by teaching them their first notes on the piano, and the house was often filled with hymns as she practiced.
Doris found great joy in supporting her children and grandchildren through their musical performances, sporting events, and art activities. A wonderful joy came on her 90th birthday, when her first great-granddaughter, Sadie, was born. As “birthday
buddies,” they cherished celebrating their special day together.
A lifelong educator, Doris touched countless lives through her teaching. She began her career in a one room schoolhouse in rural Kansas, and later taught in elementary schools in Greenville, SC, Fort Worth, TX, and Lebanon, MO. She often reminisced about her former students and where life took them.
After retiring in 1993, Doris and Leon began wintering in Leesburg, FL where they formed many special friendships. They enjoyed games, potluck dinners, and browsing local flea markets. They also hosted Sunday services in their retirement community, ministering to those unable to attend a local church.
In 2015, Doris and Leon moved to Greenville, SC due to health reasons and to be near their grandchildren. After Leon’s passing, Doris continued living with Tim and Teresa, moving with them to Dade City, FL, in 2021.
Doris was a devoted Christian, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who will be greatly missed. We look forward to seeing her again in Heaven.
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