Doris Faye Terwilliger

Doris Faye Terwilliger, 91, formerly of Aztec, NM, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025, surrounded by her family in Albuquerque, NM. Doris was born November 28, 1933, in Bridgeport, NE to Roy and Georgia Shaw. Doris grew up as the middle child with two older sisters, a younger sister and a baby brother in Oshkosh, NE.

In 1954, Doris wed the man that she would spend the rest of his days next to, Ronald Terwilliger. Doris and Ronald’s union produced three wonderful children that they have always been proud of, Teresa, Cheryl, and Stanley. The two eventually made their forever home in Aztec in 1958.

Once the family was established in their home, Doris went to work for Safeway Stores, working her way up from checker to assistant manager. She retired in 1986 after 20 years of service. Upon retirement, Doris and Ronald spent their time enjoying their grandchildren, traveling to see family across the country, snow-birding in Arizona and visiting with their neighbors. 

Doris loved to craft, spending many days teaching her granddaughters how to crochet, cro-knit, bead earrings, and tole paint. She never said no when the grandkids asked to help when she was cooking, even if it meant more mess for her to clean up later. She rarely missed her “soaps” and it was often that she spent a Friday evening watching Wheel of Fortune. Doris was able to play piano and accordion, often playing only by ear. In her later days, she enjoyed a good round of cards and frequently included her own “rules”. She was also a great source of the daily doings at the assisted living facility, usually due to her overly inquisitive nature.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents - Roy and Georgia Shaw, her husband of 64 years - Ronald, sisters – Jessie and Lucy, brother – Roy (Sonny) and grandson – Drew. She is survived by sister – Phyllis, daughters – Teresa and Cheryl, son – Stan (Debbie), three grandchildren – Stacey, Ashley (Rick) and Valerie, and three great grandchildren.

A special thank-you is extended to The Beehive Homes of Volcano Cliffs that provided a wonderful living environment for Doris in her last years on earth, along with Nevaeh Hospice for giving comfort and care in her final days.

Services will be held graveside on Thursday, February 13th at 11:00 with Rev. Eileen Utton officiating. Interment to immediately follow.