WESTBROOK — Doris Rachael Featherson, 71, a lifelong resident of Westbrook, passed away on Sept. 8, 2011, after a long illness.

She was the eldest daughter of Robert and Theresa (Martin) Gouzie, born in Westbrook on July 1, 1940. Doris lived her life doing and caring for others. Every day included acts of kindness to her family, friends and to strangers, never asking or expecting anything in return. She was a tireless giver, providing rides, opening up her home, caring for her grandchildren, visiting those who were sick with soup, whatever someone needed; she would support them as best she could.

With her love of knitting, she made hundreds of mittens and hats over the years, giving them to all she knew. A child with no mittens in winter was something she couldn’t bear to see and she would often give her mittens to random children on the street to warm their hands. But, the largest part of her heart belonged to her family.

She cared for her husband Nelson for many years, visiting him daily while in nursing care until his death in 2009 after 47 years of marriage. Her children and grandchildren were her reasons for living and she enjoyed every minute she spent with them.

She was a wonderful cook and put smiles on many faces, especially with her famous peanut butter fudge.

Doris had a practical, no nonsense, yet gentle attitude of accepting life as it came and dealing with it even when it brought hardship. She never complained during difficult times but instead just quietly did what had to be done.

She also had a bright, happy and fun side, encouraging action or adventures, often saying, “Why not?” Camping, line dancing, visiting her in-laws in Eastport, sipping tea from a fine china cup, spending time with her grandchildren and Sundays at Memere’s were all things that made her happy.

She was such a thoughtful, kind, and considerate woman and was admired for her strength and her heart and loved by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed as a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

She is survived by a daughter, Shirley Featherson of Westbrook; two sons, Paul and Dennis, both of Westbrook; three sisters, Priscilla Boulanger of Falmouth, Pauline Rendall of Casco and Diane Bruns of Portland; two brothers, Roger Gouzie of Windham and John Gouzie of Westbrook; four grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Nelson; her parents, Robert and Theresa Gouzie; and brother, Donald Gouzie.
Visitation was held Saturday at Blais & Hay Funeral Home, 35 Church Street, Westbrook.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to: Westbrook Animal Refuge League, P.O. Box 336, Westbrook, ME 04098.