Doris Hamby Wise

Doris Letitia Hamby Wise, born January 3, 1943, in McCaysville, Georgia, heard her Father say “Well done” and peacefully entered eternal rest on April 9, 2025, at her home in Turtletown, Tennessee.

Doris loved Jesus with all her heart and served faithfully as a longtime member of the Church of God of Prophecy. With her earthly journey complete, she now beholds Him face to face and rejoices alongside her loved ones who preceded her in glory, including her father William "Bill" Hamby, mother Mary Alice, brother Frederick Harold Hamby, and son-in-law Rick Elms.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her daughter, Ondra Renee Elms; brother William Boyd; her cherished grandchildren, Micah White and Gracee Rossey; her great-grandchildren, Gabe, Olivia, and Avery. She is also survived by a host of cousins, nephews, and nieces — and countless others who, touched by her contagious spirit and boundless love, considered her family.

Professionally, Doris dedicated 27 years as a marketing analyst with Amoco Oil, advancing through positions in Marietta and Savannah, Georgia, and later in Chicago, Illinois. A woman of many talents, she also worked as a hairstylist and once owned a salon in Georgia. Upon retiring, she returned to her beloved Turtletown to care for her mother.

Seeing a profound need in her community, Doris founded the Living Free recovery ministry, tirelessly advocating for those battling addiction. She appeared on behalf of many in court, offering hope, second chances, and the unwavering love of Christ. “This is a ministry that God called me to in 1999," she once wrote, "and with the help of the Good Lord, freedom is not only possible — it is happening. Thank you, Jesus.”

An ardent advocate for political engagement, Doris was proud to be Polk County’s first Republican Election Commission Supervisor, helping to flip 13 counties and secure the state house for the GOP. She served under former Tennessee Governor and U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander as his representative in the East District and founded the first Republican Women’s Group in Polk County.

The family will receive visitors from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, at Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home in McCaysville, Georgia. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, at the same location, with her adopted son Pastor DeWayne Hamby officiating and special music from her beloved friends, Blair and Sonya Cantrell.

Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Doris Hamby Wise.  Sign the guest register and send condolences online at www.cochranmcdaniel.com.