Arlene Doran

Arlene Doran, our precious mom, grandmother, mother-in-law and friend passed away at her home on Monday, September 27, 2010. She was born July 29, 1932 in Anthon, Iowa and spent much of her life in Shreveport, Louisiana. In 1980, to be close to her children and grandchildren, she moved to Lufkin and fell in love with the town.

Arlene lived and practiced service to others, always thinking of others before herself. There was never an occasion, celebration, holiday or thank you that someone did not receive a note from her. She always worried her handwritten words could not be read, but no one that needed the encouragement of her words ever seemed to have difficulty.

Arlene had a love for babies and animals, and spent countless hours volunteering at Holy Angels School for Children of Special Needs in Shreveport, Louisiana, Ellen Trout Zoo, Relay for Life, and other fundraising events near to her heart. She always wore a t-shirt for everyone's favorite events and faithfully wore her Lufkin Panther's t-shirt every Friday, even last Friday before her death.

Arlene was an animal lover, saving hundreds of dogs and cats from certain death, adopting them from the local animal shelters, or rescuing them from the roadside and providing them a loving home.

Mom's first love was her family. She had six children which she dearly loved. While her daughter was terminally ill, she slept on the hospital room floor for two weeks to be with her. She battled cancer herself 12 years ago, winning the fight and was always proud to be cancer free.

Mom had an enormous faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. She was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, always saving the back pew for her loyal and faithful friends.

Mom, we love you deeply, and miss you greatly. We will always remember your smile, laugh and words of encouragement and know you are in Heaven with Laurie and God our Father where you will certainly hear, ""Well done My loyal and faithful servant, well done"".

Survivors include her daughters and sons-in-law, Diane and Rodney Paulette of Hudson, Nancy and John Robertson of Houston, Debby Evans of Shreveport, Louisiana and Susan and Dean Kjeldgaard of Malakoff; son, Brian Doran of Santa Monica, California; nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sister, Jean Peck of Sioux City, Iowa; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Harold and Pauline Smith; daughter, Laurie Doran; ex-husband and father of her children, Charles Doran; and brother, Gerald Smith.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice in the Pines, 116 South Raguet Street, Lufkin, Texas 75904 or the Winnie Berry Pet Adoption Center, P.O. Box 472, Lufkin, Texas 75902.

According to Arlene's wishes, private family services will be held.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.