Doris Deater

Doris Deater
October 13, 1919 ~ October 5, 2016

Doris Irene Deater, who died October 5, 2016 at the age of 96, was born in Mill Village, Pa. on October 13, 1919, the daughter of May and Frank Culbertson. She is predeceased by her beloved husband of 56 years, Paul E. Deater; a sister, Frances Kuhns; a brother, Robert Culbertson; and by two sisters who died in infancy. She is survived by a daughter, Diane D. Elliott (Kenneth Elliott); a granddaughter, Jessica May DiPalma (John DiPalma); two great-grandsons, Jackson and Jameson; dear nieces and nephew; and by many treasured lifelong friends.
A graduate of Meadville High School, she was a member of the National Honor Society. She was employed at North West Bank, Bell Telephone, and Midcontinent Telephone/Alltel, from which she retired after 38 years of service as a records administrator who was always respected as a responsible and skilled professional. She was a lifelong member of Stone United Methodist Church and a member of the Golden Crown Order of the Eastern Star. After retirement, Doris and her husband enjoyed traveling throughout the western US, relaxing at their hunting camp near Tidioute, and spending the winter months in Sarasota.
During their retirement years in Meadville, Doris and her husband moved to Wesbury Retirement Community, where she was an active participant in that community's life. She served as a charter member and treasurer of their United Methodist Women; a member of the Wesbury Resident Council and Thoburn Village Council; a member of the Board of Directors of the Sunset Auxiliary; and a volunteer Good Neighbor. Her fiscal contributions to Wesbury were reflected in her recognition as a Sustaining Donor and membership in the Hyatt Cribbs Society. Taking advantage of Wesbury's art classes, Doris took great pride in the oil paintings that she shared with family and friends.
To those who loved her, Doris will be most remembered as a quiet woman of great faith whose life was exemplified by the beatitude "blessed are the meek." She cared little for material possessions in life, taking more delight in her friends and family. She always put the needs of others before her own. To her family, she was a quiet source of strength who modeled her Christian values and rejoiced in the achievement of others. Few knew the extent of her kindness and generosity, since she never mentioned her good deeds in public. For her friends, particularly those struggling with physical challenges, she was a reminder that they were not forgotten. The special treats she purchased and delivered, the visits she made, the gentle encouragement she provided, and the countless letters she wrote brightened many a day.
Our family is thankful for the caring, compassion and expert care provided to Doris by all of the staff at Wesbury in Meadville, and by the staff of the Friendly Home and the Hospice of Lifetime Care in Rochester, New York.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to either Meadville's Stone United Methodist Church, 956 S. Main St., Meadville, PA 16335 or to the Wesbury Foundation, 31 Park Ave., Meadville, PA 16335 in Doris' memory. Memorial Service plans to be announced.