In memory of

Doris Lillian Gravley (Ross)

October 18, 1943 -  October 25, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Doris Lillian Gravley (Ross) in her 82nd year, on October 25, 2025, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Doris lived a life marked by love, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends and faith.

Many years ago, Doris accepted the Lord and was baptized at the East Preston United Baptist Church in Nova Scotia, a decision that shaped her life and brought her deep spiritual peace.

She was predeceased by her beloved soul mate, Erven MacDonald, and her cherished son, Victor. Doris was the loving mother of Donna Harris (Bobby), and a proud grandmother to Shirmara Hallett (Graham), Bobby Harris Jr., Tremaine Harris (Cheyenne), and Tisha Harris (Tristan). Her joy multiplied as she became a great-grandmother to Nathanial and Hendrix. She will be lovingly remembered by Goddaughter Jessica Simmonds.
Doris was the daughter of the late Reginald Ross and Lillian Ross (Maxwell), and was predeceased by her siblings Leslie, Stephen, and Reginald (Sonny). She will be deeply missed by her surviving siblings: Kenneth, Ella Lewis (Lance), Betty, Dennis, Lillian, David (Wayne), Leonard, Rev. Debbie Simmonds (Hank), and Victor. Among her younger siblings, she was affectionately known as “Dorda,” a name that carried cherished memories. She is also fondly remembered by her brother-in-law John MacDonald (Louise), and a dear cousin Betty Williams Aiken (Allen).

Her legacy lives on through her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, cousins all of whom she loved dearly.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Hillsdale Terrace, especially Kate, Candy, and Ashley, for their compassionate care over the past seven years. Special thanks also to former Nurse Director Jen Walker of Fairview Lodge for her dedication.

A celebration of Doris’s life will be officiated by her sister, Rev. Debbie Simmonds. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. Details regarding the date, time, and location of the service will be provided by the funeral home.

Flowers may be sent directly to the funeral home.

Guestbook 

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Eunice Sharpe (Friend of Donna and Family)

Entered October 27, 2025 from St Catharines on

Rest in peace in heaven. 🙏

Brent & Wendy Morgan (Friend of family)

Entered October 27, 2025 from Roseneath

Dear Donna Bobby and family.
Our sincere condolences to you all.
May Mum rest in peace.
The Morgan Family

Mike Hachey (Betty is like a second Mom to me . I grow up with her boy’s.)

Entered October 28, 2025 from Toronto

Sending prayers for the creator to the family and friends. 🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️

Christine LaBossiere (Caregiver)

Entered October 29, 2025 from Oshawa, ON

As Personal Support Workers, we’re taught how to care for others but we’re also told not to get too attached. The truth is, sometimes that’s impossible. Dorris was one of a kind.

She had such a fun, vibrant personality and was always so thankful and appreciative of everything we did for her. I remember coming in on my days off just to visit her. We’d talk about her grandchildren as I prepared to welcome my own first child into the world — she would gently rub my belly and laugh. On her birthdays, I’d bring her comfy clothes and her favourite bath soaps.
I’d play Elvis on the radio while she soaked and sang along.

Dorris was as bright as the sunshine, and now that she’s gone, the world feels a little more cloudy without her warmth and light.

My heartfelt condolences go out to Donna (Bobby) and the rest of her extended family. She was such a wonderful person, and I will forever miss my beautiful Dorris.

— Christine

Jackie Shadid (Childhood Friend)

Entered October 30, 2025 from Oshawa

She is in a better place now with no more worries and pain. My sincere condolences to the family!!! 🙏🏾🕊💔✨️

Photos 

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