Winchester, VA – Lois Marie O’Doherty (née Sullivan), 90, died peacefully at her home in Winchester, Va., on Thursday, Apr. 20, 2023.
Born May 9, 1932, she is survived by her nine children and their spouses: Patrick (Teresa) of Winston Salem, NC; Michael (Lisa) of Fredericksburg, VA; Margaret (William) Corcoran of Richmond, VA; Jane of Winchester, VA; Stephen (Nancy) of Arlington, VA; Thomas (Laurie) of Covington, VA; Kathleen (Shawn) Brooker of Lynchburg, VA; Barbara (Doug) Young of Richmond, VA; and Beth (Kevin) Kennedy of Cary, NC. In addition, she leaves behind 29 beloved grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Lois was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Philip J. O’Doherty; her parents, John and Margaret Sullivan; and eight siblings.
Visitation will be at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 5, at Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home, 175 Mountain Avenue, White Sulphur Springs. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in White Sulphur Springs. Interment will be immediately after the Mass.
A native of White Sulphur Springs, Lois was raised on a family farm during the Second World War – years that inspired her deep commitments to faith, family, hard work, and duty. After graduating from high school, she attended business school and began working in Charleston, WV. There, she met her husband, Philip, at a Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) dance. They married in 1952 and spent the next 38 years raising their children, not resting until all had graduated from college.
Over the years, she held various jobs, including working at the Toy Shop at The Greenbrier. An avid reader and excellent cook, Lois also enjoyed golf and gardening. Her happiest moments were spent surrounded by loved ones – especially at the dinner table, where her mashed potatoes and homemade bread were legendary.
She will be remembered for her profound grace, abiding faith, warm laughter, and, most especially, loving devotion to her family.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to a charity of choice.
Please send online condolences by visiting www.WallaceandWallaceFH.com
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