Doris M. Matthews

Doris Elaine Matthews was born on July 25,1931 in Washington, DC to Clarnce L. and Ossie Rogers Mitchell. She attended Philadelphia schools, graduated from Overbrook High in 1949, earned her degree in education from Cheyney University while becoming a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and later received a master's from West Chester University. For 42 years, Doris taught English, math, and social studies in the Philadelphia Public School system, where she was known for her strict but fair approach, always showing kindness and insisting on mutual respect for one another. She retired in 1997, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students. 

Doris met, courted, then married Richard Matthews, on July 25,1960 and from this union, they welcomed two daughters and raised them in Mt. Airy. Doris invested deeply in her family life, encouraging her daughters to take swimming and piano lessons and participated enthusiastically in Jack & Jill of America, Inc., serving as both recording secretary and treasurer. She loved attending her daughters’ choir rehearsals and social events, always cheering them on, nurturing their passion for community involvement.

Doris loved family holiday celebrations, hosting and cherishing annual Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners that brought everyone together. She enjoyed her brother-in-law’s lively Halloween parties, where she would dress up, laugh, and connect with relatives and friends. Family reunions were especially dear to her, and she made every effort to attend, reconnecting and making new memories with loved ones.

She was a member of The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas where she married Richard, their daughters were baptized, and she served in several ministries including Daughters of the King and Children’s Library Committee until health issues prevented her from traveling independently.  Social activities were a highlight of Doris’s life. She had a deep love for card games—hosting poker nights that stretched until dawn, playing bridge with the ladies in her Tuesday bridge group and competing in tournaments, as well as joining her pinochle and Kalooki friends for regular games. Doris was also an enthusiastic casino visitor, taking frequent trips to Atlantic City with friends, indulging in poker and slot machines and savoring the camaraderie and excitement. Even as her health declined, she continued to play cards as long as possible, cherishing these moments of friendship and fun.

Above all, Doris treasured her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, never missing their school performances, move-up days, prom send-offs, or graduations. She shared a special bond with her great grandchildren, from Lydia who taught her technology, including how to use her cell phone and being her TV guide; Dougie, having corn on the cob and boiled egg dates, watching Family Matters, teaching him long division and how to play cards; Dakoda the youngest, spending countless hours playing games, watching shows, and sneaking treats.  It became apparent that Doris snuck treats with all who called her Mom-Mom. 

Doris’ one demand was to remain at home until the end of her life. This was honored through the devoted care of her family and caregivers, allowing her to spend her final hours surrounded by loved ones. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters Diane and Donna; granddaughters Nicole Ellis (Demetrius), Kia Matthews, and Courtni Matthews; great-grandchildren Lydia Fields, Douglas Matthews, and Dakoda Matthews; sister-in-law Darlene Matthews; nephews Clarence L. Mitchell, III (Aisha), Roger Mitchell, Mark Sadler, and many beloved cousins, relatives, friends, and neighbors whose lives she touched deeply.

Submitted with Love,

The Family

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