Mrs. Doris Iola McGraw Nation, 97, of Deville, was received into Heaven on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
Born on February 15, 1929, during the first year of the Great Depression, Doris was the eldest child of Alvis and Eloise McGraw. She was one of five children and learned early in life the value of faith, family, and hard work.
She was raised in Hopewell Baptist Church, where her family were founding members in 1906. In later years, continuing their legacy of love and service, the family donated land for a cemetery—an expression of their enduring commitment to their church and community. That church planting spirit remains part of this family today.
Doris married Leon Nation and became a member of Big Island Baptist Church. From this union were born two sons, Bobby Wayne and Ronald Leon. She faithfully raised her boys in the church, instilling in them the same steadfast faith and values that guided her life.
Doris’s early years were shaped by hardship. Having lived through the entirety of the Great Depression, she understood perseverance and responsibility from a young age. She worked diligently as a child and carried that strong work ethic throughout her life. Though her greatest devotion was always to her family, she worked briefly in Alexandria at Blackmon’s Laundry, and Cleaners, before spending more than 40 years as a beloved Avon representative and talented seamstress.
Her home was always welcoming. There was invariably something good to eat, and laughter was never far away. Doris was known for her quick wit and lively spirit. If you thought you could outsmart her with a clever remark, you quickly learned otherwise, she was always ready with a sharp and humorous reply. Her warmth, strength, and spirited personality left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvis and Elouise McGraw; her husband, Leon Nation; and her son, Bobby Wayne Nation.
Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Ron Nation (Kathy); her daughter-in-law, Barbara Nation; grandchildren Crystal Nugent (Scott), April Murrell (Micah), Brent Nation (Amy), and Tammy Nation; 8 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
A graveside service for Mrs. Nation will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Big Island Baptist Church Cemetery with Brother David Gatch officiating.
Memorials may be made to NOW Church, Missions Fund, 21237 Hwy 167 N., Dry Prong, LA 71423.