Obituaries

A pillar of strength and elegance, Doris approached life with a quiet dignity that stood on the principles and foundation of her Godly Christian walk throughout her life until she transitioned. She was known for her thoughtful counsel, her nurturing presence, and her ability to find joy in the everyday moments. Whether through her generous acts of kindness, her engaging conversations, or her enduring support, Doris made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Doris Stene Thomas was born to Herscher and Cleopatra Sumpter on August 8, 1945 in Marvell, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers; Isaiah Sumpter, Chauncey Sumpter, two sisters; Mary Sumpter, Linda Sumpter, her daughter; Sandra Gail Thomas, and her sister/best friend; Maggie Paschal.

At an early age, Doris confessed her hope in Christ at the St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church in Turkey Scratch, Arkansas.  After marrying her husband, Ellis Roscoe Thomas in 1968, she later joined Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church where she remained an unwavering and devoted servant of God until the time of her death. Doris served as a Sunday School and Bible Study Teacher, Secretary, and Mission President. She held many positions in the Phillips, Lee, Monroe, and Desha District and the Regular Arkansas Baptist Convention. She also served as a dedicated, active member in the Precious Jewel/Electa-Ruth #108 Order of Eastern Star.

Doris’ educational journey included her receiving her high school diploma in 1963 from M.M. Tate School. She then obtained her associates degree in 1967 from Mary Holmes Junior College in West Point, Mississippi. She furthered her educational advancement by obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1968 from the Agricultural, Mechanical and Normal (AM&N) College in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. With the love of education and dedication to her career and professional advancement, Doris obtained her Masters of Science in Education in 1990 from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas.

Doris’ professional career began at Southwestern Bell in Helena, Arkansas where she committed her time and service for 19 years. She then found her love for teaching while working in the Holy Grove School District. Because of her love for teaching, she transitioned her educational practices and worked in the Marvell School District for many years until she retired.

Doris leaves to cherish her memory her husband; Ellis Thomas of Trenton AR, her daughter; Elise Williams of West Helena AR, her granddaughter; Roquel Williams of Jacksonville AR, her great grandson; Elias Williams of Jacksonville AR, four siblings; Joyce Sumpter of Turkey Scratch AR, Herschel Sumpter of Helena AR, Johnnie (Curleen) Sumpter, Sr. of Barton AR, Alvin Sumpter of Marianna AR, all her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; all her nieces, nephews, aunt; Geraldine Sumpter of Memphis TN, dedicated son-in-love; Antonio Wiliams, best friends/sisters; Carlee Latham, Gloria Glass Burton, Savanah Mayo, and a host of cousins and friends.