Dora Emma (Duncum) Turner

1942. WW II. A single, 20 year-old young lady from Cameron, Texas, daughter of Orba O. and Nuell Sanders Duncum, boarded a train alone, for Washington, D.C. She was answering the call for clerical staff at the “War Department”. Indeed, an independent and most patriotic young woman. Later, back home in Texas and settled into married life and motherhood, she worked for the Texas National Guard, Camp Mabry in Austin for 31 years. Dora Emma (Duncum) Turner was wife to Reese Sr. for 54 years until his death in 1998. At his funeral, she did not sit in the family grieving section. Rather, she stood at the chapel door and greeted arriving guests with hugs and kisses, smiles, and her Texas lady charm. Two weeks later, that funeral home called to ask if she would work as a greeter. With her husband gone, she accepted. She greeted and consoled the bereaved for five years – until her little stroke deprived her of driving and other things.

She fought for recovery and regained some. She moved to Bellville to be close to family, keeping her ability to love, nurture and laugh. Time eventually took her thoughts and laughter, yet her body fought on. She found peace July 8. We are certain that the greeting party to meet her at the Gate included her loving husband, a baby boy who had died at birth in 1944, a very special horse named “Pinto” which she rode to school in Cameron, numerous dogs, cats and other critters she loved and cared for over her life. And, of course, loads of Duncum, Sanders and Turner family. She is survived by son, Reese, his wife Gayle of Bellville, five great-grandchildren from three grand-daughters; Ella, with husband Blake Mahon have Lila Rae and Emory, Cara, with husband Donny Boynton have Ellie and Mason, and Jena, with husband Dominic Casey, have Nico – all of Houston .

Her life’s resume included some noteworthy things; active president of The Anderson Mill Garden Club (Austin), board member, Bank of the Hills in Cedar Park, Methodist church volunteer, but her family is inspired by her optimism, courage, patriotism, her love of family and Christmas and animals. As Christians, we are sure we will enjoy her company again. Funeral arrangements will be in Austin.

To share your memories and condolences with Dora's family, please visit www.cookwaldenchapelofthehills.com.