Doris Elaine Abbott of Traverse City, formerly of Oceana County, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, in Tallahassee, Fla., on March 10, 2013. Doris was born in Whitehall, Mich., on July 8, 1928, to her parents Francis and Sybella Leighton. She lived in Whitehall until going to college in 1947. She married Walter B. Abbott Jr. in 1952, who preceded her in death. Doris was a practicing Registered Nurse for over 40 years, graduating from Augustana School of Nursing in Chicago in 1950. Doris had a nurturing instinct that served her well in her profession and personal life. Her children and grandchildren were her highest priority and the joys of her life. She dearly loved her husband and immediate and extended family. She also loved her pets, the most recent being her longhaired chihuahua Rosie. She enjoyed all animals and creatures of nature, including plants and flowers. She nurtured her many plants, never giving up on her attempts to save those that others would have discarded. Doris had a lifelong love of Lake Michigan and cherished the 26 years that she and her husband Walt lived on its shore near Little Point Sable Lighthouse. She loved having family and friends around her and entertaining them in her home. Her family shares many fond memories at the lake, campfires on the beach, camping trips, playing games and watching the MSU Spartans. Doris had many friends who will miss her profoundly. Survivors include her children, Shawn (Barbara) of Tallahassee, Fla., Holly (Terry) Gorton of Traverse City, and Kevin (Nancy) of Oakdale, Calif.; six granddaughters, Nicole (Barry) Richter, Shelli Abbott, Lindsay (Jesse) Lopez, ReAnn Gorton, Tori Abbott, and Brandi Abbott; and one great-grandson Marcus Lopez. Also surviving is her sister Carol Ann (Judson) Abbott of Umatilla, Fla.; sister-in-law Kathy Gentel of Holland, Mich.; 11 nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and great-nephews. Doris was also preceded in death by her brother Kenneth Leighton, sister Barbara Wise, and infant granddaughter Heidi. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 6, the Shelby United Methodist Church in Shelby, Mich., followed by a reception and sharing of memories. Memorials may be directed to Cherryland Humane Society, 1750 Ahlberg Rd., Traverse City, MI 49686 or Shelby United Methodist Church, 68 E. Third St., Shelby, MI 49455. To leave a message of condolence for the family or to get directions visit www.harrisfhome.com. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home in Shelby (1-888-216-9744).

Published on March 24, 2013, Traverse City Record Eagle