Doris Faye Keaton Williams, 97, of Moscow, passed Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. Born and raised in Hinton, W.Va., on Feb. 7, 1927, to Ina and Dewey Keaton. She attended Marshall University, then transferred to Ohio University completing her undergraduate degree in psychology, then a graduate degree in early childhood development.
Doris married and had three children: Robert Scott, Ronald Blaine and Nancy Ann.
In 1965, Doris accepted an education and research position at Bowling Green State University. Then, achieving a doctorate degree in early childhood development from Ohio State University. She created and developed the Ohio Regional and Training Office for Head Start being recognized for outstanding contributions to the academic areas of child development and early childhood education and was awarded the distinguished alumni award. She pioneered research in Piaget and Montessori early childhood education and led an international study tour across Europe. She authored three books on her research surrounding early childhood development.
In 1983, she accepted the director of home economics role at the University of Idaho. Her tenure hallmarked by research and international programing including presidents of the Partners of the Americans, exchange program in Ecuador, the United States Department of Agriculture Cooperative Extension and the University of Idaho Women in Development. Throughout her distinguished career Dr. Williams has served as a consultant with Health and Human Services regarding Head Start. These experiences enhanced her professional contribution and encompassed travel across the USA and worldwide. She had countless friends and colleagues, was a trailblazer, a force with tremendous impact and was a brilliant, extraordinary woman.
Dr. Williams was a member of P.E.O. Sisterhood, Chapter CC., and volunteered with the League of Women’s Voters and at Gritman Memorial Hospital.
At Bishop Place she had a wonderful time making more fiends and at Glenhaven she showed an elegant presence and compassion for others.
She leaves behind her beloved daughter, Nancy, of Richland, who cherishes her mother and held a special bond of best friends that allowed them a genuine richness, and by her son, Robert Mitchell, of Los Angeles, who also adored her. She will be missed greatly. She also leaves behind a son, Ronald, and his children.
Doris’s passing is preceded by her parents, sister, brothers and by her precious son Robert Scott. She asked that her ashes be placed beside those of her beloved son Robert. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Gritman Wellness Center.
