Born in Los Angeles, CA on May 13, 1942, she was the oldest child of John Earle and Ruth Brown Wells. Dori grew up in Arcadia, CA attending Highland Oaks School, Ascension Parish Day School, and Arcadia High School. Her family enjoyed sailing and spent many weekends and summers at Howland’s Landing on Catalina Island. Dorcas attended Whittier College where she received a B.A. in Sociology in 1964 and was a member of the Athenian Society.
Dori had a passion for people and education. She began her teaching career in Whittier and East Palo Alto, CA and continued at Brookfield Elementary in Sacramento, CA. After moving to San Diego, CA, she worked for 25 years as Director of Admissions at Francis W. Parker School. In the 50-year span of her career, Dori mentored many students and colleagues. In retirement, Dori joined the Board of Trustees at Whittier College. Her work ethic and devotion to family set an example for all of us. Dori had a way with people and could connect with anyone through interesting conversation. She loved fashion, cooking, reading and the outdoors, especially boating, skiing, gardening and hiking in Mammoth Lakes, CA. Dori was an active member of St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church in Corona Del Mar, CA.
Dori is preceded in death by her parents, husband Charles Shryock, and ex-husband Hollis Moore. She is survived by her daughter Melissa (JP) Leasure, grandchildren Katie, Amanda, and John Leasure; her brother Winfield (Melinda) Wells, nephew Eric (Antonella) Wells, niece Amanda (Chris) Lovrien, great nephew and nieces Atlas, Mieke and Alessia Wells; her partner Frank Olson; her step-daughter Charmaine (Sean) Bailey, step-grandchildren Lily and Mac Bailey; her brother-in-law Bob Shryock, sister-in-law Nancy (Joe) Jordan; and her “sister-of-the-heart” Susie Rodi. She is cherished by her many friends and colleagues in Sacramento, CA and San Diego, CA.
There will be a memorial on November 30, 2019. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dori’s name to the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1441 Eastlake Ave., Suite 8302, Los Angeles, CA 90089 or at www.uscnorris.com/support; or St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church, 3233 Pacific View Drive, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625.
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