Doris DeVelma Howard (Boykin) departed this life on August 15, 2017 at the age of 92 years young. She was born to Albert and Ruby Boykin on July 28, 1925. She grew up in First Missionary Baptist Church where she embraced our Lord and Savior at an early age. She graduated from Ozark Negro City High School and Alabama State University where she majored in and received her Degree in Elementary Education and History. She began her teaching career in Dothan, AL. Doris was the rare social butterfly equally adept at moving in all circles and enjoying people from all facets of life. It wa this quality that endeared her to her many friends, students, and church family for life.

She leaves behind those to cherish her memories and love and many who loved and will missed her dearly. Her immediate family: Omar K'han Hazel (Tosha) and daughter, Alexis; Chamel Teree Pratt (Ray) and children, Dimitri, Gabriella, Jaden and Mya; Talese Cie Pratt and children Dasia and Grace; Chris QuJean (Kimberly) and daughter Allison; and Ruby Antoinette Hazel and Alexandra Louis-Jacques.