Doris Bailey Wennerbom of Center, Texas, passed away peacefully in her home on December 21st at the age of 99.

Doris was born on July 28, 1923, in Shelby County to Spurgeon and Isabelle Daw Bailey. She attended Joaquin school where she graduated as valedictorian in 1939. She furthered her education at Stephen F. Austin with a major in Physical Education. Her first teaching job was in Port Arthur teaching PE. It was while teaching there that the school nurse introduced her to her nephew, MT “Bo” Wennerbom. He was an air force pilot in town on a leave. It was love at first sight, and after corresponding thru letters until Bo was able to return to the states, they were married in 1945. They then moved to College Station where Bo attended Texas A&M on a GI Bill and earned a degree in Engineering while Doris took in laundry from Corp students at Texas A&M to help pay the bills. During this time they were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Susan, born in 1946. After graduation, the family moved to Beaumont and Doris taught girl’s PE at South Park High School. Over the years, they moved several times as Bo’s career advanced with every job. Some of the cities they lived in were Dunkirk, New York; Bay City, Michigan; Cordele, Georgia; and Perrysburg, Ohio. Many lifelong friends were made throughout the years.

Eventually Doris stopped teaching and devoted herself to being a housewife for 59 years. When Bo retired from Schindler elevators, they bought a home in Center and never moved again. If you asked Doris at any time how she was doing, she always responded that she was wonderful. She was a genuine optimist and always had a kind word.

She is preceded in death by her dear husband Bo; her daughter, Susan; her parents; her precious sister, Joyce Weatherall; and her great-niece, Shelby Weatherall.

Left to cherish her memory are Nephews: William (Bill) Weatherall and wife Marguerite of The Woodlands, Texas Charles Weatherall and wife Carol of Denton, Texas

Cousin:  Etola Jones and husband Micky of Huxley, Texas Great-nieces and nephews and numerous friends

The family would like to thank Doris’ caregivers, Jennifer Edge, Mercy Moody and husband L.C., Vicky Sneed, and many others who have helped Doris over the past 6 years. Bo’s last wish was that Doris would be able to stay home and never reside in a nursing home and that was made possible because of your devotion to her. Also, much appreciation to Affinity Hospice for making Doris more comfortable.

Visitation will be at noon on Thursday, December 29 at Watson & Sons in Center, Texas. A graveside service will follow at 1 in Oaklawn Cemetery with Bro Gordon Vaughn officiating.

Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com