1923 – 2012
Thompson, CT — Doris M. (Ducharme) Jewell, 88, died Wednesday, January 4, 2012 at Day Kimball Hospital after a short illness. Formerly of Mechanicsville, she had been a resident of Pierce Memorial Baptist Home in Brooklyn for over ten years.
Doris was born in North Grosvenordale, daughter of the late Joseph and Armenie (Daviau) Ducharme. On October 25, 1941, Doris was united in marriage to Stephen H. Jewell, Jr. Doris and Herbert had many happy years together until his death in 1977.
Doris attended St. Joseph School and Tourtellotte Memorial High School in North Grosvenordale. After completion of her education, she worked in various locations in the textile industry for many years. She was a life member of the Ladies Auxiliary Post 10088 in Quinebaug, as well as the Thompson Senior Citizens. During her time at Pierce, she enjoyed creating handiwork with her friends in the Shawl Ministry. In years past, she belonged to the Royal Travelers and volunteered for RSVP.
Doris will be sadly missed by her three daughters and their families. She leaves behind daughters Jane Ellison of Thompson, Joyce Cormier and her husband Albert of Putnam, and Sandra LaBonte and her husband Lawrence of Thompson; her grandchildren Eric Ellison and his wife Monica of Tolland, Erica Groh and her husband Lawrence of Thompson, Carolyn Riendeau and her husband Christopher of Putnam, Amanda Bernat and her husband James of Shrewsbury, MA, Jennifer O’Connor and her husband Rick of Naugatuck, Jeffrey LaBonte of Thompson, and Jared LaBonte and his girlfriend Mandy Shenko of Thompson; her great-grandchildren Benjamin Ellison, Corey Groh, Alexandria Groh, Marcus Riendeau, Paige O’Connor, and Winter O’Connor. Doris is also survived by her brother Andrew Ducharme and his wife Anita of Thompson; sister-in-law Mary Jewell of Putnam; brother-in-law Marvin Jewell of Mechanicsville; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
In addition to her parents and husband, Doris was predeceased by her brothers Philip, Wilfred, Donat, Ernest, and Edward Ducharme, and her sisters Jeannette DuBois and Yvette Ducharme, as well as her son-in-law Paul Ellison.
Doris created beautiful knitted and crocheted items, most of which she gave to family, friends, and charity. From her childhood days in North Grosvenordale, to her years at Pierce, Doris opened her heart to all she met. She had a sincere love of people and an interest in their lives. She had a special quality of making those around her feel valued. Her kindness and laughter uplifted spirits when times were sad. She treasured her family and friends, and was especially appreciative of the loving care she received from the staff and residents at Pierce.
At the request of Doris, all services will be private. “I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one. I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done (from AfterGlow – anonymous).” In honor of Doris, take a moment to make someone smile.
Gilman Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. For memorial guestbook, visit http://www.GilmanAndValade.com.
Erica Groh
Even though Mem is gone, she will always be in our hearts. I feel so blessed that we were able to be loved and have Memere in our lives for all these years. I also am so happy my children had the joy of having Mem in their lives. We sure did love our Memere Jewell and a beautiful Jewell she was! We will miss her so very much! I will always remember the glow in her eyes when she looked at her grandchildren. She lit up everytime she saw us!! Heaven has its newest angel!
Gloria Plante
I always felt twice blessed as a child because Authie Doris was not only my aunt, she was my Godmother. This made her like a special second mother to me. Although she had her own 3 beautiful daughters, she included me in many of their family events and gatherings. I especially loved a particular meal she made most Sundays and she made it a point to share it with me many times. Her sense of humor, her laughter, her sharing quality and generosity will always be remembered, but more so the way she made everyone she talked to fel like they were the only person there. She always looked right into your eyes and listened to what you had to say even if you were a very small chld. I’ll love you forever, Auntie Doris. Thanks for all the wonderful memories.
Pat Messore
I met Doris at the Pierce Home where I was a volunteer 9 years ago. I saw her crocheting and thought she might like to join our Prayer Shawl Ministry at Our Lady of La Salette Church. She was eager to join and produced lovely shawls for our ministry. Later a Ministry began at Pierce and Doris was our first member, continuing to crochet beautiful shawls and baby hats. We became good friends, visiting at Pierce and occasionally going out to eat together. Sometimes my husband came to visit or drive us to a restaurant. I was happy to meet some family members and hear about all the goings on in her family. She especially liked talking about her grandchildren and great grandchildren, lighting up when she spoke about them. I’ll miss our talks and her lively personality and will always remember her.
Joseph and Tina Vaccariello
Tina and I would like to offer our condolencies for Joyce and Al for the loss of her mother Doris. God bless you and your family in these moments of contemplation of life’s joyous moments with Doris. I know that she will be missed by all the family. Our deepest heartfelt prayers go out to your entire family.
Marie and Paul Desautels
We were sorry to hear of your loss but know she is now with our Lord and at peace.
michael higgins
I tried to do this yesterday but became very upset and had to stop. I was very upset when I heard the bad news and I know nothing I can say will stop the pain everyone is feeling. It will never completely go away. I’m sure my Memere and the rest of the brothers and sisters in heaven were at the gates when she arrived and Auntie Doris will never be alone or without family. I love you Joyce, Jane, and Sandra.
R.I.P. Auntie
Susan Lamb
My family and I met Doris several years ago at Pierce when we went with Bob Booth to sing for his wife Jimmie. Doris immediately warmed our hearts with her kindness and gentle, fun-loving spirit. And who could resist that sparkle in her eyes! We had some wonderful evenings, all singing together in the dining room. She would always welcome in people who were passing by in the hall, always make room for one more friend.
Doris shone with a warm, beautiful light, and knowing her was a gift.
Norma Zoner and Mary Robinson
We met Doris at the Pierce Shawl Ministry and enjoyed her company immensely. We extend our condolences and will miss her very much.