Doran, Nancy Marie (nee Laughton)

  Beloved mother of Linda Ellen Stein, Richard Emmett Doran, Jr., Thomas Allen Doran, and Barbara Marie Oaks, adored Grandmother, and cherished friend to countless people in the St. Louis community and beyond, passed away peacefully with her close family members at her side on September 24, 2020.
Nancy was born on April 10, 1933, in the small town of Olney, Illinois, the youngest of three sisters. Upon acceptance into nursing school, Nancy moved to St. Louis where she would spend the rest of her life. After completion of her nurse’s training, Nancy began working as a nurse at Missouri Baptist Hospital where she eventually headed the psychiatric unit. As she worked the floors of the hospital, Nancy met the love of her life and husband, Richard Emmett Doran, Sr., a patient who had been severely injured in devastating car accident after returning home from service in the Navy.
In 1957, Nancy and Richard were married and started a family together. Shortly thereafter, Nancy and Richard moved to the Indian Hills neighborhood of South County, where they established a life-long home and incredible network of friends that continues to thrive to this day. Nancy lived her dream of becoming a mother and expanded her family to four children, all close in age. As the children grew older, Nancy continued to care for patients as a nurse at Mount St. Rose and St. Mary’s Hospital, again rising into a leadership role as rehab charge nurse. In 1982, Nancy lost her husband Richard after a series of health issues. Nancy continued in her role as charge nurse until her own health issues caused her to retire after 40 years of service.
Over the course of her lifetime, Nancy had many interests and hobbies that changed with time. One that was consistent was her role of caregiver for her patients and for her family. Nancy was an avid knitter for many years and provided warmth through the creation of blankets, sweaters, booties, and much more for those in need. Nancy had a deep love for her animals, especially her precious chihuahuas. She enjoyed a regimented routine of daily soap operas and specific snacks and treats that she shared with those who provided her with company. She was a dedicated Cardinals fan for many years, had an affinity for the color red, and loved watching “old” movies that reminded her of the sounds and experiences of her youth. Nancy maintained her passions and personality up until the last days of her life. Despite her physical limitations, she continued to bring light and joy to all of those who were gifted with the opportunity to be in her presence.
Survivors Include: Children- Linda Stein, Tom and Helen Doran, Richard, Jr. and Kelli Doran, and Barbara Oaks; Grandchildren- Jarrett Stein, Emily Doran, Cameron and Cassandra Doran, Heather Oaks, Joseph Jr. and Christina Oaks, Joshua Oaks, Marisa and Andrew Oaks-Erhardt, Raeleigh Oaks, and Jade Oaks-Feiteira. Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Doran, Sr., her sisters Pat and Louise, her son-in-law Joseph Oaks, Sr., and her grandson, Trey Doran.
Join us for visitation on Wednesday September 30, 2020 from 9:00a.m. – 12:00 p.m and Memorial service at 12:00p.m. at the Kutis Funeral Home Affton Chapel 10151 Gravois Road
St. Louis, MO 63123 followed by the burial at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery.