Doris Deanne Hurst

Doris Deanne Hurst, a woman whose laughter could brighten the darkest day and whose love embraced all who knew her, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was 85 years old.

Doris met the love of her life, Clifford, when they were just teenagers at Abilene Christian College. Their love story began when Clifford saw her from across the campus as Doris walked into a beauty salon, and he turned to his friend and declared, “She is the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen. I’m going to marry that girl someday.” Their love blossomed into a lifetime of deep affection and companionship, unwavering support, and love for the Lord. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, music, and the laughter of four beautiful daughters — Dina, Kimberly, Michele, and Julie - each of whom carries her strength, wisdom, and big personality.

She had a passion for the simple pleasures in life: a fun t-shirt from her loved one’s travels, a chocolate candy bar, and having a family picnic after church.

Doris had a deep passion for music and shared that love with generations of students as a devoted piano teacher. As a member of 6 national music teacher associations, her home was filled with the sound of children practicing scales, holiday recitals, and the gentle encouragement of a teacher who believed in the power of music to shape lives.

Doris was the heart of her family and the soul of every gathering. Her legacy lives on in her daughters, her grandchildren, and every student whose life she touched with her humor, her wisdom, and her fierce, unconditional love.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, Aubrey and Audrey Samanie; sister, Patricia Homan; and brother, Donald Samanie.

She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Clifford; her daughters, Dina, Kimberly (husband, Jimmy), Michele (husband, Mark), Julie; her eight grandchildren, Taylor, Madison, Devon, Hunter, Matthew, Chris (wife Jenn), Jenni, and Jillian (husband Sean); and seven great grandchildren, Lexi, Myla, Colton, Makena, Breelyn, Sloane and Ashton.

Doris lived well, loved deeply, and laughed often. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered with every wave that kisses the shore.