Mrs. Doris Jean Thomas, 86 of Phenix City, AL passed on Sunday, March 8, 2026 in Phenix City, AL.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. EST on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Gaines Chapel A.M.E Church, 911 Dillingham Street, Phenix City, AL with Rev. Gregory McLeod, officiating. Burial to follow in Edmonds Cemetery. Public visitation will held Friday, March 13, 2026 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST.

A Time to Be Born

Doris Fortson "Doll" Thomas was born on November 27, 1939, in Hatchechubbee, Alabama, to the late Wylie and Louisiana Fortson. She was one of seven children born to this union. All of her siblings—Wanda L. Fortson, Willie Oscar Fortson, Eula M. Kennedy, Jessie M. Fortson, Martha M. Williams, and Juanita Chambers—preceded her in glory.

From her earliest days, Doris carried a gentle spirit, a humble heart, and a quiet strength that shaped her life's journey.

A Time to Love

Doris was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Reverend John Thomas Jr. Their loving union of forty‑two years was blessed with three children. As a pastor's wife, she carried the title of First Lady with grace, dignity, and unwavering devotion. She was a member of the Minister Wives Ministry and supported her husband faithfully throughout his pastoral assignments.

Her love was steady, soft‑spoken, and deeply rooted in her faith. She lived with elegance, moved with purpose, and loved with sincerity.

A Time to Plant

Doris confessed Christ at an early age and joined Howard Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Hatchechubbee, Alabama. Throughout her life, she planted seeds of faith, kindness, and service everywhere she went.

After her husband's passing, she joined Gaines Chapel AME Church, where she continued her Christian walk as a Missionary and Stewardess. Her presence brought peace, her smile brought comfort, and her life reflected her devotion to God and her community.

A Time to Rest

On early Sunday morning, March 8, 2026, Doris answered the Master's call and transitioned peacefully into eternal rest. She completed her earthly assignment with grace, leaving behind a legacy of humility, quiet strength, and unwavering faith.

Cherished Memories

Left to honor and cherish her memory are her three devoted children:

• John (Bridgette) Thomas, Stone Mountain, GA
• James (Melinda) Thomas, Phenix City, AL
• Thylia (John) Calhoun, Columbus, GA

Her legacy continues through her six grandchildren: Lavoris Thomas, Carlita Thomas, Christian Thomas, Ashilee (Nicholas) Gillis, Brittney (Devonn) Furlow, and Bryan Calhoun.

She is also survived by two great‑grandchildren, Alaysia Roland and A'keira Willis; a devoted great‑nephew, Omar Martin; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who loved her dearly.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her dedicated caregivers: Patrica McCoy, Eufernia "Faye" Williams, Gloria Hill, and her niece Kizzy Morten.