Doris Jean Daniels

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 from 10 AM to 12 PM at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia.

Doris was born on April 11, 1939 in Vandalia to Frances Mary (Bloore) and Ruby Carl Painter. She was lovingly cared for and raised by Carver and Ruth Walkup from the time she was just a few months old, and they became the parents she cherished throughout her life.

She married Billy R. McDow on January 23, 1958 and to this union were born two children: Mark and Dana. She later married George G. Daniels on December 27, 1974.

Doris was a proud graduate of Hickman Kewpie Class of '57 and spent 15 years working at the University of Missouri. Outside of work, Doris’s life was centered around her family, whom she devoted herself to wholeheartedly. Her generosity extended far beyond her immediate family, as she welcomed many into her home, serving as a mentor and mother figure to many.

She was a member of the Cosmopolitan Luncheon Club and Parents Without Partners (PWP). She was a dedicated gardener, crafter, and artist. Doris had a love for square dancing, decorating for every holiday, and her tradition of decorating graves, where she would visit cemeteries to place flowers on the graves of loved ones. She also played a big role in the Class of '57 reunions and celebrations.

Doris was a one-of-a-kind, special lady who made an incredible impact on everyone she met. She was a constant source of love, kindness, strength, wisdom, and laughter. To know her was to love her. She will be remembered for her unmatched ability to make everyone feel like family, and she will be deeply missed.

Doris is survived by her son, Mark McDow; brother, Gary Walkup; son-in-law, Greg Cunningham; grandchildren Jarrod Cunningham, Kayla Pulliam, Dane McDow, Haden McDow; great-granddaughter Harper Kate Landrey; and a host of extended family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; six brothers; husband, George Daniels; and daughter, Dana Cunningham.