Doris L. Pearce's Obituary
Doris L. Pearce, (nee Sebring), age 91 of Shalersville Twp., passed away peacefully on July 18, 2025, in Aurora, Ohio. Born on May 30, 1934, in Knox Township, PA, Doris's journey through life was marked by an unwavering dedication to her family, a deep commitment to her community, and a heart that knew no bounds.
Doris's early years were spent in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, where she graduated from Brookville High School before pursuing her passion for caregiving at Nursing School in Erie, PA. It was this passion that defined her professional life as a nurse and homemaker, and later as the cherished neighborhood child caregiver who touched countless lives with her kindness.
On April 2, 1956, Doris eloped to Angola, Indiana, with the love of her life, James L. Pearce. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, spanning 65 years until James's passing in 2021. Together, they built a family that would be Doris's pride and joy: children Kevin (Cindy) Pearce, Timothy (Tammy) Pearce, and Lisa Cutlip; grandchildren Ashley Cutlip, Joshua (Cara) Cutlip, Kyle (Carlye) Pearce, Connor (Rachel) Pearce, Joceyln (Dillon) Soard, Sam (Madelynn) Grudowski, Ben (Emily) Pearce, Max (Emily Espersen) Grudowski, Sarah Pearce, Courtney (Brian) Grace, AJ Hakeem, Aaliyah Hakeem, Aaniyah Hakeem, and 11 great-grandchildren who will carry her legacy forward.
Doris was predeceased by her parents, Joshua and Esther (Dickey) Sebring; her daughters, Tracie Simon (Sidney Anderson) and Rhonda (Kenneth) Grudowski; and five siblings. Her family was the cornerstone of her existence, and she instilled in them the values of love, faith, and thoughtfulness that she embodied every day.
Her life was a living example of the Christian faith she so devotedly followed. Doris was an active member of Portage Faith UMC, where she found fellowship and purpose within the Card Club and Hope Circle. Her faith was her compass, guiding her through life's challenges and joys alike.
Doris's interests extended beyond her immediate community. She cherished the family reunions at The Farm in Knoxdale, PA, where laughter and stories were shared and memories made. Her favorite joy, however, was the special tradition of taking each of her children and grandchildren out to dinner and shopping on their birthdays - a testament to her thoughtful nature and the individual love she had for each of them.
As we bid farewell to Doris L. Pearce, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart that gave unconditionally. Her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, and her memory will be cherished in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Friends may gather for visitation on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at the Portage Faith United Methodist Church, 9922 State Rt. 44, Mantua, from 10 - 11 a.m. immediately followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Shalersville Twp.
Please join us for a luncheon in Doris's honor in the church fellowship hall following the graveside service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Portage Faith United Methodist Church to the address above.
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