Doris Mullins Southerlin

Doris Mullins Southerlin, 88, loving wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend, died peacefully at her home on Wednesday, January 13, 2021.   

Doris was preceded in death by her beloved husband of fifty-seven years, Sloan, her parents, a brother, Clyde Mullins, and a sister, Jean Compton. 

Mrs. Southerlin is survived by her daughter, Paige, and husband Gale of Abingdon; grandson Adam and wife Casey of Danville, granddaughter Bethany and husband CJ of Abingdon; four precious great-grandchildren, Laci, Lincoln, Harper, and Coleman, all who were her sunshine; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and her South Carolina family. 

She was born on beautiful Caney Ridge in Dickenson County, Virginia, to Francis and Cecile Mullins.  She graduated from Ervington High School, then went to Berea College where she met Sloan.  She graduated from Emory and Henry College where she was President of Women Students. 

Doris taught school for thirty-one years.  Most of her teaching career was spent at Abingdon High School in Washington County.  At the time of retirement, she was the Chairperson of the English department.  She sponsored the National Honor Society for nineteen years.  Mrs. Southerlin touched the lives of many students, and they in turn, have positively affected their communities. 

Doris was a longtime member of Abingdon Baptist Church.  She was the church librarian and taught Sunday School class until she dedicated her time to care for Sloan.   

She was involved in the Virginia Highlands Festival Antiques Market.  One of her favorite hobbies was operating a small antique shop.  She also was a hospice volunteer.  Doris leaves behind a legacy of putting others before oneself, kindness, and helping others.  As an English teacher she loved literature and did her best to pass that love to others. 

Honorary pallbearers will be Adam Thompson, Allyn Southerlin, Roan Southerlin, CJ Lewis, Bo Love, and Jason Love.   

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 17, at 2:00 p.m. in the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon.  Rev. Dr. Bill Bryan will officiate. In accordance with Covid restrictions, social distancing practices will be implemented and face masks will be required for attendance.  The family would like to express appreciation to Home Health Nursing of Southwest Virginia, Caris Healthcare, Dr. John Mann, numerous medical professionals, Home Instead Senior Care, and other caregivers who have become part of our family.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be made to Abingdon Baptist Church at 361 West Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210 or Faith in Action, located at 798 Hillman Highway, Abingdon, VA 24210. 

Those wishing to share memories or send “Hugs from Home” may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com. The family of Doris Southerlin is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service and Crematory - Forest Hills Chapel, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA 24210.  (276) 623-2700.