Obituary of Doris V. Rogers-Beckett

Doris Virginia Rogers Beckett, affectionately known as ‘Bootsie” and “Nana” entered into this world on June 10, 1934 in Accomack County, Virginia. She was the oldest child born to Hilda Rogers and Johnnie Bailey. She departed this earthly life on Thursday, February 25, 2016. Doris received her early Christian education at Gaskins Chapel, AME in Savageville, Va. She was an active member of the church and served as a youth leader, and a member of the youth choir. Doris received her elementary education through the Accomack County Public School system, and graduated from Mary N. Smith High School in 1951. Shortly thereafter, she was united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Warner Lee Beckett, Sr. whom she had known since childhood. Because of job opportunities, Doris relocated her family from Virginia to Glassboro, NJ where she resided for over 55 years. Doris was employed for 34 yearsat the Vineland State Developmental Center as a dental assistant. She held a special place in her heart for individuals with special needs. Endeavoring to continue and build upon her Christian foundation, Doris joined the Community Methodist Church in Glassboro, NJ under the pastorate of Rev. Brown. Soon after, the church changed its affiliation and became a part of the United Body Disciples of Christ organization. From that point until her heavenly transition, she was a faithful and dedicated member of three churches within that denomination. She served at Holy Sacrificial UBDCHC in Glassboro, NJ under the leadership of Bishop James O McAllister;Pilgrim’s Rest Disciples of Christ Holy Church, in West Berlin, NJ under the leadership of Bishop William H Bright, Sr. and Bishop James E Moore, Sr.; and Bright Memorial Disciples of Christ Holy Church, in Camden, NJ under the leadership of Bishop Warner L Beckett, Jr. , her son. Doris served in numerous capacities in all of the churches where she held membership. She was always keeping busy, and never let any grass grow under her feet. She was a member of the Missionary Department, Usher Board, Pastor’s Aide Committee, Pastor’s Anniversary Planning Committee, and the Mother’s Board. She also served as Church Clerk/Secretary, and National President of the Mission Conference. She loved to sing and happily served in the Disciplettes Chorus and the Senior Choir. Whatever position she held, she gave it her best, and she never slacked in doing the Lord’s work. Doris possessed many passions, one of which was missions. She supported the building of a fresh water well in Africa, Feed the Children, and the Disabled Veterans Organization faithfully. Doris, was a very family oriented person, and she loved family gatherings. Christmas was her most favorite holiday to celebrate with her family. She was known for her homemade yeast rolls, sweet potato pies, and other dishes. The highlight of the family Christmas celebration was to gather in her dining room to watch her open her gifts. Doris reared four children. She afforded each of them the opportunity to grow professionally and spiritually while she provided verbal and monetary support when necessary. She also loved her grands and treated them as her own, imparting wisdom and providing guidance as needed. She was stern yet loving. Doris was predeceased by her brother, Johnny Mack Bailey of Salisbury, MD. She leaves to cherish her memory her children; Brenda Ann Riley (Floyd) of Cedarbrook, NJ; Warner Lee Beckett, Jr. (Sandra) of Sicklerville, NJ; Roxanne V Smith (William) of Philadelphia, PA.; Edward L Council of Boynton Beach, Florida; nine grandchildren Coswaylo, Warner III, Sean, Joy, Keithe, Kortne, Edward, Krystn and Sidney; three great-grandchildren along with her brothers and sisters; Myrtle Hall (McKinley) of Elk Township, NJ; Chestina Ledbetter of Bear, DE., Robert Rogers of Williamstown, NJ; Renee Fields of Baltimore, MD; Ralph Smith of Salisbury, MD; and Beulah Butler of Richmond, VA; two godsons; Melvin Rogers (Cynthia) of Charlotte, NC and Jordan Riley of Atlanta, GA., and a host of other relatives and friends. She will forever be in our hearts.