Doris Darlene Heckman

Doris Darlene Heckman passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at the age of 82. She was born on January 28, 1944, in Franklin County, Kansas, the daughter of Alice Evelyn and Chester Lee Ray.

Doris lived in Pomona before moving to Ottawa in 1964, where she made her home until 2025. She then moved to Wellsville, where she passed away. She was a graduate of Pomona High School and built a life marked by dedication to both family and work. Doris worked for Ottawa Wholesale before becoming a stay-at-home mother. Later, she served as bookkeeper for Heckman and Mace Trucking as well as Heckman Trucking, and she also worked part time at the Ottawa Municipal Auditorium.

On August 14, 1964, Doris was united in marriage to Earl Eugene Heckman in Pomona, Kansas. Their marriage was a close and loving commitment. They also enjoyed traveling together in their camper to Branson and to Port Aransas, Texas.

Doris was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was affectionately known as Mema by the family.

She loved to sew and to work with crafts, and she was a member of the Sunflower Piecemakers Quilting Guild. Through her talent and care, she created numerous quilts and wall hangings. More than anything, she treasured time spent with her family, which brought her the greatest joy.

She is survived by her husband, Earl Eugene Heckman, at their home at Wellsville Health and Rehabilitation; her daughters, Teresa Elliston (John) and Lisha Heckman (John Kunkel); her grandsons, Lukas Hobbs (Karrie) and Lathen Hobbs (Tyla Brown); and her great-grandchildren, Brylie Hobbs, Waylon Hobbs, and Isabella Hobbs. She is also survived by her cousin, Pat Maxwell, who was like a sister to her.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, Alice Evelyn and Chester Lee Ray; her grandmother, Elsie McFarland-Cain; and her step-grandfather, Oscar Cain.

Doris will be remembered for her loving devotion to her family, her creativity, and the warmth she shared with those around her. Her life was one of steady care, quiet accomplishment, and deep love for the people closest to her.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Wellsville Health and Rehabilitation, 304 W. 7th Street, Wellsville, Kansas 66092.

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