Albert Yoxall Doran passed away peacefully with his family surrounding him December 4, 2010, in Cox Medical Center from a courageous battle with lung cancer. He was born February 19, 1928 in Springfield, Mo., to Allen and Ada Doran. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Allen and John Doran. Albert graduated from Central High School in 1946 and proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1946 until 1949. He married Betty Lou Miller on Oct. 9th, 1949.
Albert was a firefighter, Equipment Operator and Captain for the Springfield Fire Department for 35 years. He loved to travel and especially to visit his grandkids. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and watched every game. His church family at National Heights Baptist Church was a very big part of his life. His strong faith was a reflection to so many people. He was always lending a helping hand to family and friends, and a big hug was a must. Husband, Brother, Daddy, Uncle, Grandpa, Papa D, and friend is who he was best known by.
He will be greatly missed and survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Betty; daughters, Judy Cochran (Tom), Jana Woodall (Steve); granddaughter, Holly Kinahan (Jim); grandsons, Brian Cochran (Nicole), Brad Woodall (girlfriend Tracey and son Sam); great- grandchildren, Taylor and Connor Kinahan, and Chace Cochran; sister, Alice Baldwin; brother in law, Larry Miller; sister-in-law, Dorothy Sorensen; and a host of nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend their gratefulness for the medical staff at Cox Medical Center South for all of the loving care they provided over the past seven months.
Services will be under the direction of Greenlawn East with visitation on December 7, from 5 to 7 p.m. A celebration of Albert’s long and joyous life will be on December 8, at 10 a.m., in the funeral home with Reverend Vaughn Weatherford officiating. Graveside services to follow in Maple Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to National Heights Baptist Church, the American Cancer Society or the charity of choice. Online condolences can be sent to Greenlawnfuneralhome.com