June
15,
1935
15,
1935
April
10,
2024
10,
2024
Thelma Smith Doby, aged 88, passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Ocean Springs.
Thelma was a beloved resident of the St. Martin community for the past twenty years, having previously lived in Waynesboro, Mississippi. Born and raised in Summit, Mississippi, she was the last survivor of the seven children of Ernest and Lillie Smith. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Deborah ‘Debbie’ Kenna Bible, whom she adored, and her late husband Kenneth Doby.
Having attended Summit High School, Thelma was named Miss Summit High her senior year and was an acclaimed athlete during her time there. She dedicated twenty-five years of her career to Marshall Durbin, serving as Office Manager before retiring. Thelma’s vibrant spirit led her to enjoy karaoke nights at the Fleur De Lis club in Biloxi and volunteering her time at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and the Biloxi Veterans Administration. She was an avid sports fan, passionately supporting the University of Southern Mississippi and the New Orleans Saints. She also loved her fur babies unconditionally.
Thelma always offered support and reassurance to her loved ones. She provided a sense of calm and joy as soon as she entered a room. She found solace in her Baptist faith and cherished her time singing in the choir at Lemoyne Baptist Church. In her memory, the family extends heartfelt gratitude to her longtime friend John Luna, a steadfast companion over the last 15 years. The family also wishes to express their gratitude to the caregivers at Lighthouse Memory Care for their compassionate support and care.
Thelma’s favorite charity was the Wounded Warrior Project, reflecting her thoughtful nature and commitment to supporting veterans.
Thelma Smith Doby will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but Psalm 23, her favorite verse, will remind us of the peace she is now experiencing. Her legacy of faith, love for family, and dedication to serving others will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. Her love and optimism were felt by everyone she came into contact with, and she will be deeply missed by so many. As she joins her loved ones in Heaven, we find comfort in imagining the joyous reunion awaiting her.
Thelma is survived by her loving son, John Kenna and his wife Susan of Ocean Springs, MS; and his daughter Erin Kenna Rosetti and her husband Nick of Ocean Springs; Debbie’s daughter Kailin McGowan and her husband Jason of Sunnyvale, CA; son-in-law, Ron Bible, of Slidell, LA.; and great grandchildren Jadon Smith, Elijah Smith, and Nolan Rosetti.
She was also devoted to her extended family members, Bryan Whitworth, Maggie and Derrick Lizana, and their children Selena and Taydum; Hannah and Jonathon Lordi, and their children Neo and Lila; Gwendolyn Doby, Robert Dean, Richard Dean, Devin and Matthew Newman; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 18, 2024, from 1:00 PM until the Celebration of Life services at 2:00 PM, at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd, West Jackson County.
An ‘Open House’ celebration will immediately follow in the gathering room. Memorials in her name can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.
The Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd, West Jackson County, is proudly serving the Doby and Kenna Family. Please share memories, condolences, and photos with the Thelma's family www.riemannfamily.com.
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