nee Cole, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2015. Doris was born in Meridian, Mississippi on November 14, 1938 to Roger and Bertha Cole. The Cole family relocated to St. Louis, Missouri when Doris was in her childhood. She grew up, graduated from Vashon High School and attended St. Louis University and the University of Missouri St. Louis.

She began her career in journalism at the St. Louis Argus. During this period, Doris met her future husband James Dennis of Monrovia, Liberia, Africa. Little did she know that after marriage, she would embark on a great adventure.

Doris moved to Liberia in the late 1950’s. There, she helped run the local newspaper, The Star, and was also instrumental in founding and editing Palm Magazine. She regularly was a host on the sole television station of Monrovia, Liberia. She frequently traveled to other countries, representing her new country. Along the way, she met with many important dignitaries.

In addition to being a dedicated career woman, Doris raised three beautiful children. In 1980, when the Liberian government became unstable and a military coup was unfolding, Doris bravely got herself and her children out of Africa and back to St. Louis.

After her retirement from American Family Insurance, Doris spent her time playing bridge, traveling and visiting friends and family. Doris was a wicked bridge player, achieving the American Bridge Association ranking of Silver Diamond with 2762.43 points.

Doris is survived by her children, Peta Murray, Charles Cecil Dennis, III and Roger S.C. Dennis, grandchildren, Jason, Jarret and Jenna Murray and siblings Sara N. Cross, Millie A. Cole, Robert H. Cole, Michael D. Cole, Gydia W. Cole, Karl D. Cole and the late Marjorie A. Williams. She is a beloved aunt, niece, cousin and friend to many.

Doris lived life truly on her terms, and could be brutally honest. We were lucky to have known her, and she will truly be missed.