Doris E. Guarnieri

On October 23rd, 2023, Doris E. Guarnieri of Louisville passed into the arms of the Lord. Doris is survived by her mother, Doris (Garland) Hoke of North Carolina; sister JoAnn Reyes of Texas; brother Mark Richey of Texas. Doris is preceded in death by her father, Glenn VanOrsdale and big sisters Glenda & Mildred (Millie).

Doris had been given time on this earth to reflect on her life and she intended this writing to be a tribute to all those who touched her life. Her husband, Nick Guarnieri, carried her through 33 years of marriage. She met Nick when she was 21 years old and loved him dearly. She was married to her best friend. They never had children but had extended families. In addition to her brother and sister, she is survived by multiple nieces and nephews.

Growing up, Doris was the youngest of what she called the “first batch of kids”. Her father had passed away just before Doris was born. Doris would become the oldest of “the second batch of kids.” Things changed, as life does. The older sisters are gone now, and her younger siblings live far away.

Doris felt blessed with many friends. It seemed to her with every crisis in her life, God had blessed her with them… someone to lift her up and get her through her challenges. Throughout these times, she strived to maintain her grace. She often heeded the advice given to her years before: “listen to the silence”. And this always rang true to her.

Doris wished that when the time of her passing came, those that survived did not cry for her but not say goodbye either. Instead, she wished that we let it be “till we meet again.” She asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a good cause, lending a helping hand to others in need. And remember our furred and feathered friends; God placed us in charge of these creatures, and they need our help too. Much love to everyone. Carry on diligently.

In Remembrance.

In Doris’ last years on earth, she was faced with some difficult health challenges, but always confronted them head on with courage and dignity. In her own words, we remember her this way.

Doris had an insatiable taste for life, but accepted the fact that we will all die. She was always a joy to be with and around. She usually lit up a room with her presence. Yet, she always remained a bit of a mystery. She left us far too soon, but for her, not soon enough. She asked that we take solace that her struggles are ended, and she is now in a much better place. We’re sure that she will be a handful in her new place… just as she was with us here. Her parting words… “till we meet again”.