Doris Alma Whatley Underwood

Doris Whatley Underwood passed away Thursday, September 10, 2015, in Oklahoma City, with her two sons by her side. She was born on August 11th 1923 in Rush Springs, Oklahoma, to Walter and Alma Whatley. Growing up part of a farming family, Doris was responsible for her share of the daily chores, and as a result, learned the value of hard work early on. A self-described tomboy, Doris claimed she was a better shot with a rifle than both her brothers, and “could hit a bird’s eye flyin.”

Doris graduated from Rush Springs High School in 1941, and was, in her words, “top of the class.” After high school, she embarked on a notable career of civil service with the U.S. Army. Although primarily stationed at Fort Sill, her responsibilities required her to travel the world, something that developed into a lifelong passion.

During World War II, Doris met her only husband, Ralph Underwood, a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army. Although their marriage was brief, it produced “the biggest blessings of her life,” her two sons, Gary and Michael.

After a distinguished career of 35 years of service to her country, Doris retired to spend more time with her sons and their growing families.

Those who knew Doris will always speak fondly of her colorful personality, colorful stories, and colorful wardrobe (and matching accessories). She was perpetually full of spirit and was “dancin” well into her later years. Doris will always be remembered, always be quoted, and most importantly, always be loved.

Doris was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend and neighbor. She is survived by her sons, Gary Ralph Underwood of Oklahoma City, OK; “Mike” Underwood and his wife Dorthy, of Lawton, OK; Her grandchildren: Gary Ralph “GR” Underwood II and his wife Leslie, of Lawrence, KS; Michael “Thomas” Underwood and his wife Tara, of Houston, TX; Geoffrey Underwood and his wife Allison, of Richardson, TX; Christopher and his wife Julie, of Sherman Oaks, CA; Chase Underwood of New York City, NY; Reece Underwood of Houston, TX; and Amber Kinder and her husband Jay, of Aubrey, TX. Last, but certainly not least, her 13 beautiful great-grandchildren, who came to be the light of her later life.

A Viewing will be held Thursday, September 17th at Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper (6600 Broadway Ext.) from 8am-8pm with family to greet friends from 6pm-8pm.

A Funeral Service will be held this Friday, September 18th at Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper at 10 am. We encourage attendees to wear bright colors, because Doris always did, and would have appreciated this.

The Funeral Service will be followed by Entombment at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Lawton (8900 NW Cache Rd.) at 3 pm.

In lieu of flowers, Doris probably would have preferred a donation be made, in her name, to the Republican National Committee.

Arrangements under the direction of Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper Funeral Directors, Oklahoma City, OK.