Doran Crow Davis

Our beloved mother, grandmother and friend, Doran celebrated her “Eternal Birthday” on June 29, 2007, when she went home to the Lord after a courageous fight with serious illnesses. Born Elizabeth Doran Crow on November 8, 1944, she instinctively knew the name Elizabeth would never fit her jovial, congenial personality and quickly adopted her middle name, Doran.

Doran's biological parents unfortunately passed away by the time she was 4, and was raised by her cousins, affectionately known as Butcher and Lucille. They instilled in Doran a love for learning, as well as sharing that knowledge with anyone and every one she met. As a result, she became a teacher, devoting 32 years to instructing and inspiring children (as well as parents and peers). She spent 3 years with the Omaha Public Schools. The rest of her career was dedicated to the Papillion-La Vista School District, primarily at Carriage Hill Elementary, GO COUGARS!

During her many years in the classroom she was loved by all those who came under her tutelage, (or we should say mostly by all, well maybe by all only when she didn't give out any homework)! Her energy and enthusiasm were transmitted in every subject. Every task she tackled was never too large to be conquered and she found the way to do it. This drive and determination continued to serve her as she faced the many illnesses of her life, including a successful kidney transplant 3 years ago.

Her adventurous nature was never quelled. Her beloved red convertible carried her on many adventures, creating a vast number of “stories” related with love over the years by her dear friends, (and cohorts) Pat and Sandy. She was an avid bowler throwing a "killer finger-tip” and competed in several tournaments around the country. It was a passion she and her husband Carl shared, even after the gift of their daughter Tiffany. Family vacations were often spent bowling and as they traveled to tournaments; Tiffany happily played Barbies on a crib mattress propped up on the bowling balls in the backseat! (Yes, those were the days before seatbelts!) As the demands of motherhood grew, as well as her dedication to her students, bowling events gradually faded from the limelight. She never lost her love of the sport, but as she began her love of long and beautifully decorated fingernails, she knew she would never throw that “killer fingertip” ball again. (Thanks, Janet Elaine!)

Her fingernails and nail charms were not the only “fashion passion'' Doran loved. Her shoe collection claimed a significant place of honor in her closet. She spent many years as a Mary Kay consultant making people look as beautiful on the outside as she made them feel on the inside.

Many will remember Doran's love of cooking and the many wonderful signature dishes she shared. “Doran's Chicken Casserole” has become a staple in many homes, and will feed generations to come. (Don't have the recipe?.....Just ask!) Doran not only loved to cook, she loved Burger King --- with extra pickles. If you look closely at the image in the gallery of Doran, Tiffany and newborn Logan, Burger King is on the food table by the hospital bed. She never traveled anywhere without her Diet Coke. We are sure she asked Jesus to stop for one on her way heavenward.

The births of her grandchildren were one of the greatest joys she ever experienced. She embraced “Grandma-hood” with all of the zeal typical of Doran. She celebrated their births in her typical fashion with her favorite - margaritas and chips – from Grandmother's Restaurant. Come to think of it, there wasn't much she didn't celebrate at Grandmother's. We think there must be one of those in heaven too!

She loved each of her “boys”- Logan, and the twins, Tiron and Brody in the way Grandmas should, spoil them and send them home to Mama. Going to Grandma's was a special treat, an event Logan will have the privilege to remember. As Doran's illnesses began to rob her of her health and independence, she moved in to live with Tiffany and Ron and the boys. Although the twins being only two will not remember her as much as Logan, they will have the assurance of their Grandma's love passed down to them through their family and friends.

Doran wrote a note to her doctor telling him she wanted to fight, to beat her illness, but her body no longer had the physical strength to continue that fight. She wanted to be here to welcome Tiffany and Ron's second set of twins, due next October.

Doran fought the good fight, and has now won her prize, eternal life with her Lord and Savior. We will miss her, but will always carry her in our hearts, with love.