Doris M. Giordano

Age 94 of Coal City, Illinois, died peacefully in her home on Friday, September 25, 2026, surrounded by family who lovingly cared for her.

Born May 9, 1932, in Litchfield, Kentucky, Doris Marie was a daughter of Sherman Anthony and Agnes “Lorraine” (Conder) Dennison. At a young age, she moved with her family to Braidwood, Illinois, where she was raised and educated, graduating from Reed-Custer High School with the Class of 1950. On August 25, 1951, Doris married Bernard Joseph Giordano at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Braidwood, and together they made a home and raised their daughter.

In addition to being a devoted wife and loving mother, Doris enjoyed a long working career and held various secretarial positions throughout the area. She worked for Dr. Miles Venzara, DDS, in Coal City, as well as at Uniroyal, and most recently with Tratt Clinic in Morris prior to her retirement.

Doris was deeply devoted to her Catholic faith and was a longtime member of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Coal City, where she was active with the Martha’s. Her faith was an important part of the way she lived her life and was reflected in her commitment to family, her honesty, and her willingness to give of herself to others.

Above all, family was everything to Doris. She took tremendous pride in her daughter and found great joy in watching her family grow through the generations. She made it a priority to follow the lives and activities of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments and simply enjoying the privilege of being part of their lives.

Doris also found happiness in the simple pleasures of home. She tended her garden and flowers with care and was especially known for her wonderful pies. Pie making became more than something she did well; it was a craft she happily shared, passing along her knowledge through lessons and creating memories in the process.

Whatever Doris did, she gave it her full attention. She was honest and straightforward, spoke with conviction, and believed in giving back whenever she could, even when the gesture might seem small. There was a grace and class about Doris that was distinctly her own, coupled with a strength rooted in a lifetime of faith, family, hard work, and devotion.

Doris will be remembered as a woman of deep faith and strong conviction; a devoted wife and mother; a proud grandmother and great-grandmother; and a woman whose graceful presence left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know her. After 94 years well lived, the lessons she taught, the traditions she shared, and the love she gave so freely will remain a treasured part of her family for generations to come.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Kathy and Tim Gabehart of Coal City; four grandsons: Michael (Elizabeth) Gabehart, Brian (Jennifer) Gabehart, Kevin (Kylie) Gabehart and Kyle Gabehart; great grandchildren: Claire Olson, Bailey Gabehart, Henry Gabehart, Maggie Gabehart, Charlie Gabehart and Ryan Gabehart; brother, Ray (the late Patricia) Dennison of Morton, Illinois; sisters: Joyce (the late Thomas) Perkins of Gardner, Illinois and Lois (the late James) Watters of Coal City; her aunt, Delois (Charles) Mandat of Braidwood and numerous nieces and nephews.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents; husband Bernie in 2014, and one sister, Mary Ellen McDermott.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 North Broadway in Coal City on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow on Thursday morning, October 1, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 215 South Kankakee Street in Coal City. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Reverend Josh Miller presiding and Deacon William Dunn assisting.

Burial will follow in Braceville-Gardner Cemetery, where Doris will be laid to rest with her late husband, Bernie.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Doris’ memory to Assumption Catholic Church Building Fund.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Doris’ memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-634-2125)