Dolorise Hearrell

Dolorise L. Hearrell, 91, of Topeka, died peacefully at Midland Hospice House on June 17, 2015 with her family members at her side. Dolorise was born October 7, 1923 in Lowell, Kansas to Joseph and Pearl Fulwiler. Her husband of 66 years, Albert, died in 2011. She was also predeceased by her sister Wanda Havens of Joplin, Missouri and grandson Justin Parsons of Collinsville, Illinois.

She is survived by her daughter Iris (Ron Forbis) of Port St. Lucie, Florida; three sons: Randy (Carla), Steve (Terri) and Robert (Vicki), all of Topeka; her sister LaVaughn Hanson of Silverthorne, Colorado; 9 grandchildren: York, Zack, Colin, Amber, Kristen and Adrienne Hearrell, Bradon and Ryan Parsons, and Reagan Wynn; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Dolorise had strong personal beliefs. She was a mother, homemaker, and dedicated caregiver. When the hospital released her mother saying there was nothing more they could do for her, Dolorise set up a hospital room in her home and nursed her mother back to health and many more years of independent living. She was also her husband's caregiver for 25 years. Her care added both quality and length to his life. The family recognized that she unselfishly sacrificed time with her friends, social activities, and working at the legislature (a job she greatly enjoyed) to provide care for her mother and husband.

Her first job after high school was in a small J.C.Penney's store. She told of how much she enjoyed decorating the window displays and dressing the mannequins and how Mr. J. C. Penney himself once visited the store. Throughout her life she had a keen eye and great appreciation for fashion and decorating. She was quick to share her thoughts with a family member who needed her help. Up until the day she went to the hospital, she put thought into what she wore each day and into being sure she was appropriately dressed for that day's activities. People often commented on her tasteful appearance and her beautiful white hair. She loved receiving the compliments.

Like many others of her generation, she came from modest circumstances, growing up during the depression. She went on to experience a wonderful life that included a long marriage to her handsome Marine husband, a good deal of travel and a large family who loved and appreciated her.

Dolorise was cremated and will be inurned at a private family service. A celebration of her life was held Saturday, July 25, 2015. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Care Hospice, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606 or University United Methodist Church, 1621 SW College, Topeka, KS 66606.