Doris Jean Giago

Doris Jean (Brewer) Giago was born on January 23, 1945 in Pine Ridge, SD David O. Brewer and Barbara P. (O'Rourke) Brewer. Doris made her journey to the Spirit World on September 20, 2023 at the Aver McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD.
Doris was a force for change and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her. In her early years, Doris worked at Holy Rosary Mission where she was a high school typing teacher and a volleyball coach; she later joined a convent for a short time.
Her career in journalism began in 1981 when Doris co-founded The Lakota Times. Her vision and determination shone brightly during her time there until 1986 when she made the decision to pursue her Bachelor of Science in Journalism at South Dakota State University (SDSU). Even as a mother of two young children, she never let anything hinder her pursuit of knowledge and excellence.
After completing her undergraduate degree in journalism, Doris continued to excel in her field. She went on to obtain her Master's Degree from the University of Kansas in 1992, solidifying her expertise and passion for storytelling. Her extensive educational journey served as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her craft.
At SDSU, Doris became an admired and respected professor, leaving an enduring impact on countless students. As Director of the South Dakota High School Press Association, she recognized the importance of providing opportunities for Native American students and helped them feel at home in a new environment. She dedicated herself to breaking down barriers and bridging cultural gaps, instilling a deeper level of understanding and appreciation among her students.
Doris's dedication to promoting diversity in scholastic media programs earned her numerous accolades and distinctions. In 2009, she was awarded first place for her innovative journalism program titled "High school journalism for South Dakota Indian students" by the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. Her commitment to giving tribal stories prominence in the curriculum ensured that indigenous students found representation and validation.
Beyond her work in the classroom, Doris extended her advocacy to the larger community. She was recognized with the Dorothy and Eugene T. Butler Human Rights Award in 2017 for her unwavering commitment to fighting for the rights of Native Americans in South Dakota. Her passionate spirit was exemplified through her involvement in the Brookings Reconciliation Council, where she continued to champion social and political causes that disproportionately affected tribal communities.
While Doris poured her heart into her professional endeavors, she also cherished her personal life. She found solace and joy in her hobbies of quilting, gardening, crocheting, and baking - her culinary skills were renowned among her loved ones. She was a devoted fan of SDSU men and women's basketball. Her greatest love was spending time with her beloved granddaughter, Juneau.
Doris is survived by her daughter, Marie Giago of Lawrence, KS; son, Timothy Giago of Brookings, SD; siblings, Dennis Brewer of Pine Ridge, SD and Richard Brewer of Tulsa, OK; and grandchild, Juneau Gallagher of Lawrence, KS.
Doris was preceded in death by her parents, David O. & Barbara P. (O'Rourke) Brewer; sisters, Colleen M. Brewer and Judith E. Clifford; and brothers, David L. Brewer, Charles "Dean" Brewer, Duane Brewer, Sr. and Delmar "Fudd" Brewer.
Pallbearers will be Richard Brewer, Darnell Quintana, Tyson Elliot, Dave Brewer II, Joseph Brewer, Isaiah Stewart, Charles "Bamm" Brewer, Joshua Apple, Duane Brewer, Jr., Tim Brewer, David R. Brewer, Lawrence Martin, Jr., and David J. Clifford.
Honorary pallbearers will be All Friends & Relatives.
Wake Services: One night wake service starting at 3:30 PM, Friday, September 22, 2023 at the William "Bill" C. Bear Memorial Gym in Batesland, SD
Funeral Services: 11:00 AM, Saturday, September 23, 2023 at the William "Bill" C. Bear Memorial Gym in Batesland, SD
Officiating: To Be Announced
Traditional Lakota Services: Mr. Joe Swift Bird
Burial Services: Knight Family Cemetery, Batesland, SD
Arrangements entrusted with Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge, SD