Doris M. Sheets

MIDDLEBURY — 

Mrs. Doris M. Sheets, 85, of Middlebury, peacefully went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, July 27, 2017 at 10:40 am at the Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart with her family at her side following a courageous battle with cancer.

            She was born Apr. 2, 1932 in Mecca, IN to the late Floyd and Beatrice (Beatty) Hammersley, and she later married the Rev. Oscar H. Sheets on Sept. 9, 1951 in Frankfort. He survives at home after 65 wonderful years together.

            Also surviving are her children the Rev. Jerry (Susan) Sheets of Deputy, IN, the Rev. Larry (Connie) Sheets of Columbia City, IN, Susan “Jill” (the Rev. Rick) Rice of Traverse City, MI and the Rev. Gary (Kim) Sheets of Middlebury; sister Sharon (David) Sheets of Frankfort, IN; 12 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. A granddaughter, Jessica Marie Sheets, preceded her in death.

            Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart and the Northside Church of the Nazarene (53569 CR 7, Elkhart) are honored to host Doris’ homegoing celebrations beginning with visitation at the funeral home from 4-7 pm on Friday, July 28, 2017. Then on Saturday, July 29, 2017, Doris’ life will be celebrated at the church at 10:30 am with visitation beginning there at 10 am. Doris’ son-in-law, the Rev. Rick Rice, will officiate and burial will follow at Kilmore Cemetery in Frankfort, IN. Anyone wishing to attend graveside services there is asked to meet at the First Church of the Nazarene, 2056 E. Wabash St., Frankfort, at 2:30 pm for the procession to the cemetery.

            Doris was a genteel lady who perfectly filled the roles of homemaker, church secretary, pastor’s wife, mother and grandmother with grace and dignity. She was a member of the Middlebury Community Church of the Nazarene, but her heart will always remain with Elkhart’s Northside Church of the Nazarene, where she and her husband Oscar served the congregation there for over 20 years. Her Christian beliefs played a great role in her life, and one of her favorite pastimes was to read the Bible over and over again, but each time in a different published version. She was also an avid Cubbies and Fighting Irish football fan, and would often be found sitting with Oscar watching the game. She also enjoyed Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, and everyone knew not to bother her during her “me” time. She travelled throughout the US extensively with her family, but always considered the Gatlinburg, TN area her favorite destination. Although Doris was the thread that kept her family bound together, her passing into the hands of her Savior will be rejoiced by all. Compassionate, caring and resolved, Doris’ greatest gift was her ability to make all who knew her feel valued and loved.

            The family wishes to thank the Elkhart Hospice House and Drs. Neelam Patel and Ebenezer Keo for their unwavering care and support to all those who loved her. In honor of Doris’ memory, donations may be made to the Elkhart Center for Hospice Care’s “Brick Walk” Fund.

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