Dorise L. Woodard

Dorise Lavata Woodard was born on October 14, 1923, in Houston, Texas, to her loving parents, Rev. John Cook and Estella Taylor Cook. She was one of eleven children and the last to survive.

Dorise’s education began at Phyllis Wheatley High School, followed by Franklin Beauty School, and later, Prairie View A&M University. She enjoyed a successful career as a cosmetologist before transitioning to a role as an Inspec­tor for the State of Texas. Additionally, Dorise served as a substitute teacher at George Washington Carver High School for Applied Technology, Engineering and the Arts, where she was honored with the KPRC Sunshine Award for Substitute Teacher of the Year in 2005 and was recognized with the dedication of a fountain on campus in her honor in 2007.

Active in her faith, Dorise and her husband, Chauncy, were devoted members of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church before joining St. Monica Catholic Church, where they continued their ministry work. Dorise contributed significantly to the St. Monica parish through various roles, including serving as a lector, volunteering with the St. Vincent DePaul Society Food Pantry, and as a member of several organizations, including the Knights of Peter Calver (KPC) Ladies Auxiliary, Ladies of Grace, and Silver Steppers. She was also the founder of the St. Monica Debutante Ball and served as counselor for the Junior Daughters, the affiliated youth organization of the KPC Ladies Auxiliary. Dorise was actively involved in the Houston Chapter of the Aggie Moms as well.

From a young age, Dorise embraced Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and remained steadfast in her faith throughout her life. Even during her brief illness, she maintained an uplifting and positive attitude, continually giving thanks and glory to God.

A rosary for Dorise will be held Friday, August 23, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at St. Monica Catholic Church, 8421 W Montgomery Rd, Houston, TX 77088. A funeral mass will occur Friday, August 23, 2024 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 8421 W Montgomery Rd, Houston, TX 77088. A committal will occur Friday, August 23, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038.