DORIS TOUSLEY Obituary
DORIS TOUSLEY
10/23/1945 - 10/29/2025
Doris Kay Tousley was born on October 23, 1945, alongside her twin sister Delores, to Edward and Ethel (Woolery) Templemire. The twins were delivered at their family residence in New Lebanon, Missouri. They were the youngest of nine siblings, with Doris arriving just before her sister. They spent their childhood in New Lebanon and graduated from Pilot Grove High School. Doris ascended to her heavenly abode on October 29, 2025.
Following her high school education, Doris obtained a bachelor's degree from Central Missouri State College (now known as the University of Central Missouri) and later pursued a master's degree in Theology from Park College (now Park University). Most of her professional life was dedicated to serving as a bookkeeper for the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, currently referred to as the Community of Christ.
In 1986, Doris wed Pershing Tousley, who had retired from the United States Army with the rank of Colonel and subsequently worked for the RLDS church as the manager of the biennial World Conference. He passed away in 2006.
Doris led a life rich in adventure and engagement. Music was her true passion; she participated in church choirs and was a long-time member of the Independence Messiah choir. With this choir, she performed Handel's Messiah at Carnegie Hall in New York City and in England and Wales. She had a love for travel, embarking on journeys with her husband and groups of friends to various destinations both within the United States and internationally. Assisting others was also a significant aspect of her life. She frequently offered rides, provided financial support, and extended help in any way possible. Doris had a particular talent for befriending those who had few companions. She became a member of the Rotary Club to fulfill her desire to serve.
Doris was an ordained Elder in the Community of Christ church. Her faith was profound, and she often expressed, "God will take care of me." She cherished sharing her faith with others, whether through her testimony, leading worship services, or simply by the way she lived her life.
Doris is survived by three of her sisters, Dorothy Scott, Shirley Pullum, and her twin Delores Miller, as well as several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 15th, at the Community of Christ Stone Church, 1012 West Lexington Avenue, Independence Missouri.
Published by The Examiner from Nov. 7 to Nov. 8, 2025.