Doris Goodyear Britt

Doris Goodyear Britt, age 88, of Raleigh, was born in Lumberton, NC, the only child of Elbert and Letha Goodyear. Marriage to David Lofton Britt COL (Ret) NC National Guard took her first to Bladenboro then to Raleigh. She studied voice and history at Women’s College (now UNC-G) and office management at Hardbarger Business College.

Wherever Doris was, she loved to sing. Her strong, beautiful voice was recognized at an early age in her hometown where she sang at many events and performed on her own radio show. After college her voice was heard throughout the state as she sang at the weddings of numerous childhood and college friends. Directing the choir at Bladenboro’s First Baptist Church was one of her favorite activities. The first and last song that she sang for others was Jesus Loves Me.

Before and after raising her children, Doris worked as an administrative assistant and business manager, first in the medical field in Lumberton and later in a variety of assignments in Raleigh through a local staffing company. Her friendly nature, along with her ability to adapt quickly to new job situations, was appreciated by many.

Most important of all, Doris was a devoted and loyal daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother. She remained close to her parents throughout their lives, taking care of them through illness and old age. As a military wife, she supported her husband by inviting out-of-town Guardsmen to her dinner table, attending ceremonies and conventions, “holding down the fort” while he was at drill and summer camp, and packing her household and children into the back of a station wagon to move to El Paso, TX, Lawton, OK and Leavenworth, KS for months of military schooling. One of her favorite duties was accompanying her husband as he served as Aide de Camp to Governor Robert Scott and his wife. Doris treasured her children and grandchildren. Whatever they needed, whenever they needed it, she was there. She will always be their beloved Dorie.

Preceded in death by her husband and parents, she is survived by her daughter Nanalee (Lee) B. Pate and son David E. Britt, their spouses J. Micah Pate and Allison P. Britt, and grandchildren Jason Pate and wife Sarah, Kathleen Pate, and Hunter Britt.

Doris’ family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Rex Healthcare Floor 6 East and to Dr. Robert Smithson for their loving care and support.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 25 from 1:00-2:00pm at Ridge Road Baptist Church, 2011 Ridge Road, Raleigh, with the service immediately following. Burial will be at Raleigh Memorial Park.

Flowers are appreciated, as are memorial donations made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4200 Morganton Road, Suite 300, Fayetteville, NC 28314. Condolences may be offered online at wwwMitchellatRMP.com