STERLING – Doris M. Smith, 82, of Sterling, died Wednesday, March 27, 2019, at Rock River Hospice and Home, after a brief illness.

She was born on September 15, 1936, in Sterling, the daughter of Arthur P. and Lillian (Lott) Doty. She was a 1954 graduate of Sterling High School. She married Leslie L. Smith on March 10, 1957, in Sterling. He died August 28, 2009.

Doris had worked retail at the downtown Walgreen’s store in Sterling and later at the Kmart Store in Sterling. For over 15 years and up until her death, she had worked at the McDonald Funeral Homes as a greeter and as an assistant to the funeral directors and families.

Doris was a member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sterling, where she was active in WELCA and Morning Circle; served as a Sunday School Teacher; had served on several Church committees; and helped in the past with youth group. Doris had served on the board of Lutheran Brotherhood Tri-County branch 8407; and had been a past 4H leader, Cub Scout leader. She was an active member of the Red Hatters. Doris enjoyed weaving baskets, cross-stitching, making chocolates for family and friends, and working about in her yard.

Survivors include her son, Mark L. (Sonya R.) Smith of Sterling; two daughters, Dawn M. Smith of Hillsdale and Debra Borling (John Hamann) Bloomington, IL; six grandchildren, Eric (Annie) Borling, Karl Borling, Ashley (Ted) Swanson, Jessica Douglas, Kayla (Chris Evans) Smith, and Scott Smith; four great-grandchildren; a special great-granddaughter, Gigi; three brothers, Thomas Doty, Donald (Barbara) Doty, and Terry (Mary) Doty; and Special friend, Sally Hendricks.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leslie; and a sister-in-law, Barbara Doty.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 2, 2019, from 9 – 11 AM at St. John Evangelical Church in Sterling. The funeral will follow at 11 AM at the church. Private family burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park in Sterling. Arrangements completed by the McDonald Funeral Homes.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Rock River Hospice and Home or St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church.