Doris Thelma Dees Clemens, at the long and lovely age of 101, passed away on April 30, 2026, at The Emanuel Nursing Home after a brief stay. She will be cremated, and along with her husband's ashes, will be placed at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Milledgeville. A Celebration of Life will be held on her 102nd birthday with family and friends.
Doris was born July 8, 1924, in Vivian, Louisiana, to the late William Layfette Dees and Callie Williams Dees. She was a wonderful daughter, sister, wife, mother and a five generational grandmother (Granny) to many. Doris was the matriarchy of the family. She married Harold Eugene (Si) Clemens on June 14, 1943, in Longview, Texas. Her husband's occupation created them to move many times through Kansas and Texas. Mr. Clemens passed away on March 5, 1997, in Beaumont, Texas after 54 years of a romance of the times. After his death, Doris made her final home in Garfield. Living through the depression, wars and hard times, their life and marriage was a book that should be written to remind everyone that life is not easy, but love endures.
Doris loved and excelled at China painting in Beaumont, Texas, and after moving to Garfield, taught many China painting students. She moved into several assisted livings and found The Oaks of Bethany Assisted Living in Vidalia her final home. The residents and staff fell in love with her and she returned their emotions. Doris loved her bible study with Pastor Bill and bingo fun provided by Community Hospice. She was a member of the Garfield Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School, participated in WMU and the Choir. Doris believed in the Lord with all her heart. Mrs. Clemens is preceded in death by her husband; son, Jimmy F. Clemens (Brenda); sisters, Nona, Lola, Hattie, Faye Lou, Evelyn and Callie Irene; and brother, W.L.
Survivors include her daughter, Ruth Ann Maxwell-Douglas (Roger) of Swainsboro; son, Noel Eugene Clemens of Pampa, Texas; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.
Memorial contributions can be made to Golden Harvest Food Bank, Augusta, GA.
Chapman Funeral Home of Swainsboro is in charge of arrangements.
