Doris A. Zelina

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Doris, a warm and caring daughter, sister, mother, and wife who lived a satisfying and fulfilling life surrounded by love and joy. She leaves a legacy of kindness, compassion, and cherished memories forever etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, to Harry and Rhoda Robertson, Doris was the oldest daughter of five siblings, a position she carried with duty and responsibility throughout her life. She grew up in the close-knit community of Downingtown, Pennsylvania, where she appreciated meaningful connections with others through service.

After graduating from Downingtown High School in 1956, she married the love of her life, John. She cultivated her love for gardening, sewing, reading, and travel over the years, allowing her creative spirit to blossom in the rich soil of her garden and the pages of countless books that enriched her mind and soul.

Throughout her professional life, Doris made a lasting impact. She worked for Lukens Steel in the administrative offices and as secretary for Messiah Lutheran Church. Later, as the Dinner Theater Manager at the Downingtown Ramada Inn. Her unwavering commitment to helping others led her to a career with Help Counseling Centers, where she provided operational support until her well-deserved retirement.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Doris dedicated herself to numerous volunteer roles. She was named 2010 Downingtown Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year, a testament to her selflessness and unwavering commitment to making Downingtown a better place. She poured her heart and soul into the first few years of the Borough of Downingtown Summer Concert series and the Ice Cream Festival at the Graystone Society in Coatesville. She enjoyed conducting walking and log house tours for the Downingtown Historical Commission. She was passionate about teaching the rich history of our area and sharing pride for the community where she had spent so many years.

Doris found her most profound sense of pride and fulfillment within the walls of her loving home, where her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother flourished. She created a haven of warmth and love where family and friends always felt welcome. Her passion for entertaining and hosting family get-togethers brought laughter, joy, and treasured moments that are forever cherished.

Doris deeply missed her devoted husband, John, since his passing. Together, they shared 53 years of marriage. She is survived by her loving children, Sherri Wagner (James) and Michelle Yard (Chris), and her adoring grandchildren, McKenzie, Lauren, and Cameron. She is also survived by her siblings, Rhonda Brite, Charlotte Aikins (Gary), Suzanne Turpin, brother-in-law David Zelina (Jackie), and a vast extended family who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.  In addition to her parents and husband, Doris was preceded in death by her brother, Lee Robertson (Patty Ann); and brother-in-law, Hal Brite.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, let us celebrate the beautiful tapestry of her life. Let us remember the joy she brought, the love she shared, and the legacy she leaves behind. In her honor, let us strive to emulate her warm and caring spirit, forever keeping her memory alive. May Doris's soul find rest with her sweet John.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Doris Zelina is on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1105 E. Lincoln Hwy, Exton PA 19341. Visitation will begin at 10 am, followed by the service at 11 am, and a time of fellowship and luncheon at 12:30 PM. In place of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Log House c/o the Borough of Downingtown, 4 W Lancaster Ave, Downingtown, PA 19335, a cause close to her heart.