of Charlotte, AR
September 15, 1946 - January 3, 2025
Doris Virginia Lillard was born on September 15, 1946 to the late Hazel Louise Collins in DesArc, Arkansas and raised by her mother and stepfather, Homer Collins. She married the love of her life, Jerrel Lillard on July 16, 1965. Five years later, she gave birth to their daughter, Keri, the joy of her life. She spent her career as an English teacher at Cord-Charlotte High School and guidance counselor at Southside High School. She loved her work. In her family's 1986 Christmas card she wrote, ''I think I probably have one of the best jobs around. I get a chance to help young people develop in their social, emotional, and educational growth and actually get paid for it!'' After 30 years, she retired from education, but she continued her work investing in the community as a licensed professional counselor. She established school based mental health programs and provided group therapy in the community. Doris's kindness and love was endless and she poured it out generously for others. It's no surprise that she was voted ''most popular'' by the Arkansas State College class of 1965. There was room in her heart for everyone and she saved a very special place in it for her family, especially her three grandchildren, Isaac, Adam and Maggie Beth. Their Nana was always in the crowd at their ballgames and cheering from the audience at every concert. When she wasn't with family, she was exercising with her walking buddies, who all did their best just to keep up with her. Doris was beloved by her church family at Charlotte Church of Christ. She sat on the second pew from the front with her husband each Sunday, singing alto at the top of her lungs until it was time for her to teach Sunday School. Doris enjoyed spending time at the nursing home, leading devotionals, hosting women's events and playing games with the residents. Her generosity also extended to her Aunt Earle, whom she cared for in Aunt Earle's last years of life.
Doris loved her family and her community fiercely. And she loved Jesus most of all and served him faithfully, doing her best to live and love like Him every day. On January 3rd, 2025 she was welcomed back into His arms, with trumpets sounding and the angels singing, ''Well done good and faithful servant. Well done.''
She is survived by her husband, Jerrel Lillard; daughter, Keri O'Neil and son-in-law, Shawn O'Neil; grandchildren, Isaac Horn, Ella Horn, Adam Horn, Maggie Beth Horn and Easton O'Neil; sisters, Diane Brumley and Rita Anderson and brothers, James Collins, Tommy Collins, Homer Collins and Pat Collins.
She is preceded in death by sister, Carol Tefteller, Gladys Earle Purnell (Aunt Earle) and parents, Hazel Louise Collins and stepfather, Homer Collins.
Pallbearers are Isaac Horn, Adam Horn, Barry Lillard, Darren Lillard, Greg Simpson and Shawn O'Neil. Honorary pallbearers are all of her nieces and nephews whom she loved very much.
Funeral services will begin at 2:00pm Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at Charlotte Church of Christ with Chuck Crow officiating. Burial will follow at Center Grove Cemetery under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home.
Visitation will be held from 12:00-2:00pm Wednesday prior to service at the church.
The family requests any memorials be made in her honor to Families First in Wynne, Arkansas and to Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Families First
Mail checks: 1490 Killough N, Wynne, AR 72396
Make checks out to ''Families First''
Note: from ''Doris Lillard''
Arkansas Children's Hospital
Give a gift online: http://www.archildrens.org/donate
Give a gift by phone: 800-880-7491 (tel:800-880-7491)
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84 Condolence(s)
Betty Bradley Rains
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
So very sorry for your loss. Lifting all of your family up in prayer for peace and comfort
Robin Camp
Sunday, January 12, 2025
Lifting you all up in prayer in Georgia for peace and comfort in this sweet memories and in your faith in our Savior.
You are loved. You are His.
Gayla Simpson Hopson
Saturday, January 11, 2025
Uncle Jerrel and Keri: I loved my Aunt Doris so so much. It’s hard to put into words all of the emotions I am feeling at this time of this tragic loss. I want you both to know how much you are loved by me and so many others. I am here for you both any time you need me. Prayers for you both as well as Isaac (Ella), Adam, Maggie and the rest of the Family. I hope you are able to find peace and understanding now and in the future. May God Bless You.
Sarah Nail
Friday, January 10, 2025
Keri,
We are so sorry for your loss. We live up near Fayetteville now and don’t drive much except to the grocery stores and church. I hate that we couldn’t attend Doris’ service. However, I want to tell you a little thing about her. When we taught with her, she and John were especially close. I referred to her as daddy’s girlfriend. (She thought it was funny). We were in Wal Mart and I heard Alison say, “look, mom, it’s daddy’s girlfriend.” She was 3 or 4 years old. We laughed about that quite a lot. We loved her and teaching with her. I pray you and the rest of your family can find peace and comfort in the knowledge that you will all meet again one day.
Rylee Gould
Friday, January 10, 2025
I will dearly miss her and she was a wonderful Sunday day teacher and she always had a bright smile
Leigh Schuetz
Friday, January 10, 2025
Sending love and prayers to all that loved her. Rest In Peace
Chasity Richardaon
Friday, January 10, 2025
Mrs. Doris the love you had for everyone you came into contact with is an example of how Jesus wants us to love each other. May peace be with you until we meet again.
Jackie Klonowski
Thursday, January 9, 2025
My deepest sympathy goes out to Jerrell and the family for your loss of Doris here on earth. She was always encouraging , friendly and caring towards me. She will be missed but made such a wonderful impact while here.
Teresa Loggains
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Prayers to the Lillard Family! Doris was a wonderful person and always wore a smile!
Jack Critcher
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Jerrel…. I am heartbroken to hear about Doris….
She was such a sweet, genuine and nice lady who always had a smile to brighten up the path of anyone she encountered. What a gift….
She demonstrated that kindness in 1970, when she would drive her blue Volkswagen two miles down a bumpy, dirt and gravel road outside of Grubbs. She did this on several occasions because there was a 13 year old kid whose family didn’t have a car. The kid was a reserve on the junior high ball team and it was in the dead of winter. She couldn’t bear to see the kid walk home at 10:00 or 11:00 o’clock at night.
I know this because that kid was ME….
I will never forget her kindness and will be forever grateful!!
I could give examples of how Jerrel did similar acts of kindness as well.
Jerrel, you and Doris will never know the lives you touched and positive difference you both have made.
I love you both and ask God to give you grace and strength as only He can……
Teresa Thorne Sutherland
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Mr. Lillard I’m so sorry for you loss! Please know I’m praying for you and your family! To Darrin and Barry, I’m so sorry you’re also in my prayers!
Linda Miller
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Prayers for the family of Doris Lillard, to lose a love one specially a mother and grandmother as special as Doris was and is to her loved ones and all the children whose lives she has touched may the Lord walk with each and everyone that needs him, he will be by your side to the end and a new begining of a new tomorrow although it be a bit sad for some he is with you all. From our family to yours God Bless you all.
Robbie Lawrence, Cindy Wright, Sandra Wright
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
So sorry for your loss, praying God give all the family peace and comfort..
Michelle Owen's Watkins
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
This breaks my heart. Ms
Lillard made such an amazing impression on my life. I'm thankful that I got the chance to tell her how much she inspired my life. She was so wonderful.
Sandy and Jack Coggins
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lillard family Doris was a wonderful Christian example to all who were privileged to be around her. She leaves a lasting memory on all who knew her she will be dearly missed
Lila Williams Harmon
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Jerrel , Keri & family, Gordon & I are so sorry for your loss. Jerrel, you were one of the best leaders/adminstrators we had at Desha School & we often spoke of you with admiration. I met Doris several times and she was so smart and kind and I knew she was a mover & shaker who loved her family, her job and her life - she exuded kindness and caring. Her death was such a tragedy, like my grandson's death, 9 years ago, but be comforted - her loss is Heaven's gain - it's a tragedy to lose her but she has been given the victory she lived for & is so happy to be in Heaven with Jesus and her loved ones. You will see her again and when your departure time is set, she will be waiting for all of you with open and loving arms. Be comforted that she died as she lived, loving life and doing her Father in Heaven's work & now she is enjoying the reward she was always working to achieve. Barry & Darren, Teresa S and my "boys" from the bank, T and I are praying for you both, also, because we know your pain, but be comforted your Aunt Doris is right where she was meant to be - with Jesus. T sends her love to all the family and so do Gordon & I and our family, too. Rejoice Aunt Doris is reaping her heavenly rewards in Heaven. So glad she lived and changed and enriched so many lives & people - that was her earthly mission. Praying for all the family, Lila and family.
Teresa Crotts Darby
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Jerrel, Keri and family, I loved Doris from the first time her and Jerrald came to Grubbs. They were both so inspiring and had a positive outlook… She was my English teacher and my cheerleading sponsor at Grubbs high school and he was the coach there. I remember when Keri born, and we also went to church altogether at the grip church of grass while they were living there!! I have so many wonderful memories of your family and I am so very sorry for your loss!! Prayers.. Teresa
Lisa Howard
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Keri and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. It’s evident she was much loved and I know you will miss her.
Lisa
Carolyn Roller
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Doris was beautiful inside and out. I know she is in heaven rejoicing and singing praises to our Lord. Prayers for her sweet family.
Buddy &Phyllis Henley
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
So sorry for your loss… may you take comfort in the happy memories of your mom & precious wife. Love and prayers.
Diane Richardson
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Dear Lillard Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Doris was an amazing lady with such sweetness about her that everyone she met felt it. I was fortunate to have known her & work indirectly with her at Southside. She will be missed. Praying for God’s comfort & grace to carry you through the difficult days ahead.
Ronald Eans
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Elizabeth Gardner
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
I had the honor of helping her one night at VBS helping with her crafts. I loved getting to do this, and admired her very much. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Margaret Schlimmer
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Such a loss! I am saddened by this sudden departure of one so special to so many. As a classmate of Doris many years, she was one of the most positive people you will ever meet. Her presence would light up a room and she would make you feel as though you were the most important one there. We will miss her forever in this life. Praise God we have His promises we will meet again. Love and prayers for her family, loved ones and many friends who loved her dearly.
Melanie Hooper
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
My thoughts and prayers are with the Lillard family, Mrs. Lillard was a true gem, I spent much time in school visiting with her and looked up to her and the impact she had on myself and others.
Courtney (Wheeler) Wilson
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Lillard was always so kind and caring. Such a light!
Janet
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Jerrell and Keri and family, my heart is breaking for you. Doris always greeted with smile when I would see her. Keri, my children , Brian and Karan, had the best summer you stayed with them. Prayers for comfort, peace and strength for your family.
Gary Rounds
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
What a prime example of a good person and a life well lived. I was around Mrs. Lillard for many years at SHS. Always a big smile and always an upbeat attitude. She helped countless kids along her way.
Prayers of comfort to the family.
Gary & Sherry Rounds
Alan Vickery
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
In our thoughts and prayers,
Phyllis, Alan, Paige, & Andrew Vickery
Tianna Nash Reynolds
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
I am sure Doris is leading her own little exercise group in heaven today. What a sweet sweet lady she was. Keeping her family in prayer now and for the days to come.
Jimmy and Ladene Bray
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Jeral, Keri and family,
Jimmy and I are so sorry for the loss of your sweet Doris. She was a wonderful Christian lady and will be missed by many. Her influence will live on in all who knew her. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Roger Schnyer
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
My deepest condolences to the family. She loved her kids in school and we loved her!
Jeff and Donna Hohn
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Gerald and family,
So very sorry for your loss
I have many good memories of you and Doris during your years at Grubbs. Continued prayers for you and your family.
Jeff
(Arlene) Jannette Hembrey Lovell
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Jerrel and family, deepest condolences for the loss of your dear Doris. Prayers for your comfort during this difficult time.
Becky Blanks Watkins
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
I was so very saddened and shocked to hear of the passing of Mrs. Lillard. She was such a wonderful person and a great influence in so many people’s lives, mine included. We are all definitely better people for having the opportunity to know her. My thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone of you during this difficult time. I pray for God‘s loving arms to wrap around you each and every day . May He bring comfort to your heart.
Karry Easley
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Coach, I can only imagine the pain of your loss and am praying for
God's comforting work in your life. May Jesus come soon and give all release from this kind of pain and loss. God be with you and your family at all times.
Jay and Cathy Shell
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Our deepest sympathies to the family. We are praying for you in your time of loss.
Glenda Bowers
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Such a lovely, kind woman. She never failed to smile and speak when she saw me. I didn’t know her well but well enough to see what a good person she was. May God bless her family
Tammy Cox
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Doris was a remarkable Proverbs 31 woman of God. She loved her husband, daughter, grandchildren, relatives, work friends and students well. Always greeting each person with a smile and a kind word. Her life was not lived in vain. She was a light in this dark world. Prayers for the family & friends.
Kathy carey
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Serial and Kari and family i am so very sorry to hear about Doris. I just saw her recently at the community center walking. She always had a smile and a hug everytime I would see her. She was one of the best and did ao much dor me qhwn I was in school. May she RIP. Will be in prayers for the family in the days and weeks to come. God bless this dear family.
Laura Martin
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss. Praying for the family.
Sara Wingfield
Monday, January 6, 2025
For year's I have always wanted Mrs.Lillard to know how big of a impact she had on me in high school, thank goodness 30 something years later I was able to tell her. Thank you so much prayers for all family and friends.
Nela Marie Coldwell Lane
Monday, January 6, 2025
Jerrel and family I'm so sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family and friends. Marie Lane
Janice Fuller
Monday, January 6, 2025
So very sorry for your loss she always had a big smile on her face she has finished her race. Well done prayers for the days ahead
Yvonne Kersey
Monday, January 6, 2025
My deepest condolences to the family. To know Mrs. Lillard was to absolutely love her. SHS class of 88
Mark and Erin Walters
Monday, January 6, 2025
We are so sorry to hear of Ms Doris’ passing. Many years ago, she was so kind to take time to help us plan our wedding. This is a tremendous loss for the community. We are praying for her family
Clifford Wright
Monday, January 6, 2025
So sorry
Arlene Belin
Monday, January 6, 2025
Heartbreaking news to learn about Doris passing, I am blessed to have known her & spend time with her growing up & in our latter years...My heart goes out to the family & friends of this sweet lady & friend, you are in my thoughts & prayers!
Margaret Price
Monday, January 6, 2025
The Price family sends our condolences. Praying that God will comfort you. Doris will be remembered by all as a wonderful lady.
Scott Tefteller
Monday, January 6, 2025
So sorry Uncle Jerrel for your loss Aunt Doris was a beautiful loving aunt and person. You both hold a very special place in my heart. Keri I am here anytime for you and your family. Such a blessing to have her in my life
Chris & Rhonda (Mead) Lewis
Monday, January 6, 2025
Such a beautiful lady inside and out. She always had a smile and a kind word for all.
Trisha Ball
Monday, January 6, 2025
Dear Friends, so sad to hear this news. Doris was loved by so many. I was Blessed to have her as one of my teachers at CCHS. Later in life we meet up at the Womens Walk run clinic in Conway. She spotted me and came up to me. So wonderful reconnecting. My heart goes out to each of you. Prayers.
Albert Brown
Monday, January 6, 2025
Jerrel, I am so sorry to learn of Doris’ death. My prayers are with you and your family. Those of us attending ASU-BB in the mid 60’s were close friends. I remember Doris as a cheerleader and excellent student with a big smile.
My deepest condolences.
Leca McKenzie
Monday, January 6, 2025
Mrs. Lillard was a very special lady , I was part of the 1980 class at Southside. Prayers for the family.
Andrea Galloway-Duncan
Monday, January 6, 2025
Condolences to the family. Mrs. Lillard was always so kind and friendly.
Deborah Anderson
Monday, January 6, 2025
There are no words to help the pain and sorrow you have felt and will feel in days to come. She was a lovely lady and the world is better for having her in it. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Teri Conyers Kimmer
Monday, January 6, 2025
Doris was a beautiful person inside and out. She had a shining smile every time I saw her.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Lynn Candler
Monday, January 6, 2025
Keri and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Doris was a wonderful lady and I know all who knew her will greatly miss her. May the Lord cover you in His peace.
Lynn
Joeybeth Burcham
Monday, January 6, 2025
Doris was a very nice lady and will be greatly missed. Prayers for her family
Bertha Smith Musser
Monday, January 6, 2025
She was my school counselor in southside and facebook friend. She will be missed and prayers to the family
Arnold Harris
Monday, January 6, 2025
Doris was a blessing to us.
J K Minton
Monday, January 6, 2025
Beautiful lady will be missed by all that new hair
Tom & Pat Jernigan
Monday, January 6, 2025
So very sorry for your loss. She was a very caring person
Gail Ellis
Monday, January 6, 2025
Doris will never be forgotten, her legacy will always be remembered for the love she gave .
Cindy Nelson
Monday, January 6, 2025
Bill and I are so very sorry for your tragic loss. Doris was kind, considerate, caring , and she loved her students.
Ina Lee Henley
Monday, January 6, 2025
I am so sorry with the loss of your dear sweet Doris....I walked with her in early years. We always solved all of the world's problems. She was a Proberbs 31 Christian that just changed her address...praying for your family....
Clifford Wright
Monday, January 6, 2025
Terresia Sisk Coe
Monday, January 6, 2025
Doris and I have been friends for many years. She helped me in the 80’s when I got my Masters in Counseling and even got me to join her in the running/walking club. I have and will always have the upmost respect for her.
Wilma Russell
Monday, January 6, 2025
So very sorry for your great loss. She was such a special lady and will be missed by all who knew her. May God comfort all of you now and in the days to come.
Louise Keene Hooper
Monday, January 6, 2025
Jerrel and family, iam so sorry for your loss. May God bless and comfort you through the coming days.
Doug and Katen Massey
Monday, January 6, 2025
So sorry for your loss. She was a sweet lady
Tammy Hix Milligan and Bryan Milligan
Monday, January 6, 2025
Ms. Lillard was my teacher at Chharlotte. She was a great lady. Prayers for all her family and friends.
Ina Provence
Monday, January 6, 2025
So so sorry for the loss of this kind lady !! Prayers for all !!
Debbie Webb
Monday, January 6, 2025
I was so saddened to learn of Mrs. Lillard's passing. She was so good to our high school age kids and helped us so much. Always smiling in work and in retirement when I'd run into her. Her circle of influence and making a difference is huge. Prayers for her family as they navigate uncharted waters without her.
John and Jenneal Runsick
Monday, January 6, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with Doris' family at this sad time. May your wonderful memories be of comfort to you in the days to come.
Todd, Resa and Stephanie Bolin
Monday, January 6, 2025
Well heaven got brighter when she arrived. Her smile always glowed with warmth and love. We will continue to pray for peace and comfort for the family and friends,
Juanita Porter
Monday, January 6, 2025
Ms. Lillard was a wonderful person and a great counselor. She will be greatly missed.
Juanita (Painter) Porter
Clara Nell Reaves Crews
Monday, January 6, 2025
I will continue to pray for this family. She was a sweet and outgoing lady that showed her love of Christ in her daily life,
Joshua Hahn
Monday, January 6, 2025
Robert Milligan
Monday, January 6, 2025
Amy Mathews
Monday, January 6, 2025
Mrs. Lillard was a wonderful caring person. She will be greatly missed.
Shane and crystal wood
Monday, January 6, 2025
Many thoughts and prayers for you and family during this time of sorrow. Dorris was one of the Great ones for sure and the community will greatly miss her .
Jerry Haertlein
Monday, January 6, 2025
Doris was a wonderful lady and colleague. I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.
Jean Ann Sherrill Bray
Monday, January 6, 2025
She was such a kind and caring lady . Prayers