Doris Jean (Woodzell) Dennis, of Sheffield Village, died peacefully at the age of 71, early Monday, May 23, 2011 at the Center Ridge Nursing Home, after a long illness.

Called Jeanie by those who knew her well, she was born June 8, 1939 in Cherry Falls West Virginia. Married to Charles for more than 50 years, together they had three children, Vonda Kay Dennis of Raleigh North Carolina, David William Dennis of Bartow Florida, and Vicki Dennis Frye of Wake Forest North Carolina.

Doris Jean was a gifted sign language interpreter and spent much of her adult life serving as an advocate for the hearing impaired in Lorain County. She also loved Pekingese dogs and most recently enjoyed regular visits from her beloved Maizy.

Doris Jean was preceded in death by her parents, William Wright and Iva Bell Woodzell.

She is survived by her loving husband, Charles; their three children and seven grandchildren, David Tobey, Ansley, Jude and Jonah Dennis; and Rosemond, Lily and Samuel Frye.

The family would like to extend its gratitude to Dr. Niraj C. Mistry and caring staff of Center Ridge Nursing Home for their dedication and attentive care extended to Doris Jean.

Friends may call Thursday, May 26, 2011 from 11 A.M. until the time of the services at 1 P.M. at Wyers Funeral Chapel, 2900 North Ridge Rd., Sheffield Township. The Rev. Gary Dorsey, Pastor of Tower Baptist Church, Lorain, will officiate. Burial will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park, Amherst Township.