William Doran

William E. Doran CAROLINA BEACH - William E. Doran, formerly of Madison County, Alabama, passed away Friday, Dec. 24, 2010 at Autumn Care, Myrtle Grove, Wilmington. Born Sept. 5, 1932 he was the son of Charles and Lura Doran of New Hope, Ala. Bill retired from the United States Navy as a commander. He served aboard various ships in his 38 year career traveling the world, and was director of Navy Exchanges in Norfolk, and was officer in charge of the commissary stores region in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Bill was a caring, loving and supportive father to both his children and stepchildren mentoring and lending advice throughout the years to family and friends. He was dearly loved by all who knew him. Bill was happiest when he was on the golf course with his buddies (shipmates) playing many courses in North/South Carolina, Virginia and military bases in the U.S. and overseas. He is survived by his wife, Portia Doran; son, Bill Doran and daughter-in-law Kelly Strickland of Wilmington, N.C.; daughter, Vicki Doran of Raleigh, N.C.; stepdaughter, Leann Bevans of Hendersonville, N.C.; and stepson, John Best of Virginia Beach; sister, Margaret Motley of New Hope and various nieces, cousins and special friends. If you have ever been to a military funeral where "Taps" was played, the words are: "Day is done, gone the sun, all is well. Safely rest. God is nigh. Fading light dims the sight, and a star gems the sky gleaming bright. Thanks and praise for our days neath the sun, neath the stars with you..." Bill will be inurned with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. "Fair winds and following seas sailor...." Please make memorial contributions to North Shore Animal League, 16 Lewyt St., Port Washington, NY11050, www.AnimalLeague. org. Please share memories and condolences at www.wilmingtonburialandcremation.com Wilmington Burial and Cremation Service, 1535 S. 41st St., Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 791-9099.