Doris Keiser Ray

Doris Keiser Ray of Hillsborough, NC, passed away Friday, January 16, 2026 in her home. Doris just celebrated her 102nd birthday, October 20, 2025 with family and friends. Doris was still active and aware of her daily business up until her death. She had a remarkable mind and memory. She kept Janice busy visiting the local library where she read at least 2 to 3 novels each week. Some of her favorite authors were James Patterson, John Grisham, Amanda Lee and David Baldacci. She also had a card ministry, she would send cards weekly to her friends and family for any of their special occasions. She served people daily as long as she lived.

She loved watching her birds through her dining room window. She knew the names of all the birds that visited her each day. She was still active in the American Legion Auxillary #452 where she served as Secretary/Treasurer. She relinquished this position a mere 2 months prior to her death. She was loved by her Auxiliary friends that visited her often.

Doris was the oldest daughter of John B. Keiser, Sr and Dorothy Mae Meckley Keiser, born October 20, 1923 who precede her in death. Doris met the love of her life J. Frank Ray at a restaurant where she worked while he was serving in the Navy during World War II and training at Bucknell University in the V-12 program. Upon Franks completion of service in the Navy he and Doris were married and settled in Frank’s hometown, Hillsborough NC. They had one child who also precedes Doris in death, Kenneth LaRue Ray.

Upon making Hillsborough her home she and Frank became very active in their community. Doris was a member of Hillsborough United Methodist Church and a member of HUMC Alpha Circle. Doris was active in many civic organizations serving as Department President of the NC American Legion Auxillary in 1972-73, President of the NC District Exchangette Club in 1983-84. She also served on the Durham Exchange Club Child Abuse Prevention Center, where she was awarded Director of the Year 1993-94. She was awarded Hillsborough Exchangette of the Year in 1983, 1991, 1996-97. She received the United Way Outstanding Community Service Award in 1982-83 and was on the Board of Directors in 1990. Doris worked as Secretary at Western Hillsborough Elementary School in the 1960’s, working with Lindsay Tapp, Principal.

Doris wrote a weekly column for the News of Orange County, ‘Ray’s Ramblings’ for years. She and Frank were known for putting flags on the graves of all Veterans in the Hillsborough Town Cemetery each Memorial Day.

Doris believed in giving back to the community and helping others. She supported the NC Sheriff’s Association, The Durham Rescue Mission, Wounded Veterans, and many other charitable organizations.

Doris was well known for her Pecan Pies. She baked these pies for every occasion and shared with many of her family and friends. An No One complained!

Doris was an Avid NC State Fan and loved her Snoopy Characters. She could be seen with her Wolf and Snoopy stuffed animals at all times.

There was no one quite like Doris also known as “Darcy”, a nickname her “Southern” relatives gave to this red-headed Yankee when she joined the family.

Doris is also preceded in death by her bothers John Keiser, Jr., Joseph Keiser and Charles Keiser and sisters Mildred Earnest and Betty Baker.

She is survived by her baby brother who she loved very much, George Keiser, wife Polly of Milton, PA One granddaughter, Michelle McNiece of East Lake Il; five Great Grandchildren and two Great-Great Grandchildren. Two sister-in-law’s Inge Keiser of Middletown, PA, and Ann Ray of South Carolina. Nephew and Nieces: George KIeiser Jr (Lauren & Michael) of Media, PA, John Keiser of West Milton, PA. Joseph Keiser (Debra), Jennifer Perry (Christopher & Corbin) of Sanford, NC. Ann Ray Swindell (Bernie Doss), Emily Bodenheimer (David, Sam and Lilly); Katie McBride (Chris) of Greensboro, NC.

A special thanks to her number one caregiver, Janice Obie, who she loved like a daughter. Janice served as more than a caregiver to Doris and for that the family is forever grateful. Doris loved the other ladies that cared for her and looked forward to seeing them each day, they are Charlene Sneed, Norma Bowser, Danielle Council, Jenell Obie, Jecenta Merritt, Jamya Obie, Bertha Jones, Gladys Long, Rosa Thompson and Geraldine Johnson. These ladies showed Doris the love, care and respect that she deserved. They were her family!

Doris left quite a legacy. These attributes are just a few of many of her lifetime accomplishments.

A service will be held, Wednesday, January 28th at 2 pm. Visitation 1 hour prior to service (1pm-2pm ) at Hillsborough United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at the Hillsborough Town Cemetery. The family requests in lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hillsborough United Methodist Church or to your favorite charity in her honor.