Doris R. Chambliss, a cherished educator and matriarch, passed away on November 5, 2025, at the age of 100. Born on September 17, 1925, in Louisville, Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late John and Jennie Rogers. Doris dedicated over three decades to the Jefferson County School System as a secretary, serving various assistant superintendents throughout her career before retiring in 1992.
Throughout her life, Doris maintained strong familial ties. She was predeceased by her husband, Henry Lyons Chambliss, and was the last surviving sibling among John T. Rogers, F. Kenneth Rogers, Phillip Rogers, Eleanor R. Laun, and Marion R. VanHise. Doris often reminisced about her siblings, reflecting the deep love she held for them.
Community Engagement and Family Life
In 2008, Doris relocated to Suffolk, Virginia, to be closer to her family. She lived at the Commons of Centerbrooke until 2019, when she moved into her daughter’s home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Doris was an active member of Christ First Church in Suffolk, where she contributed to her community and formed lasting friendships.
Doris is survived by her daughter, Judy Diane Chambliss Boswell, granddaughter Jennifer Boswell Rockey, and two great-grandchildren, William Henry Rockey and Abigail Lee Rockey. Additionally, she leaves behind a sister-in-law, Ann Rogers of Florida, a brother-in-law, David Dunn, and many nieces and nephews scattered across the country.
On September 21, 2025, family members and friends gathered to celebrate Doris’s milestone 100th birthday. The event was a grand affair, honoring her life and legacy, which she richly deserved.
Memorial and Legacy
A private celebration of life will be held for family and close friends in the near future. Memorial donations may be made to the Suffolk Humane Society, located at 3118 Kings Hwy, Suffolk, VA 23434, in recognition of Doris’s love for animals, particularly her cherished dogs, Leo and Otis. Her compassion extended to all living beings, and she took special care of her pets, often referring to them as her own.
The family has enlisted the assistance of R.W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home in Downtown Suffolk to manage arrangements. Doris R. Chambliss will be remembered as a dedicated educator, a loving family member, and a steadfast friend to many.