Doris Ann Burkes Nell

Doris Ann Burkes Nell, a beloved wife, daughter, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother, left this world peacefully on February 27, 2026, at the Mississippi Baptist Medical Center. Born on June 25, 1947, in Jackson, Ms., Doris was creative and enjoyed cooking, traveling, sewing, and gardening. Her grandchildren will forever remember her for her ability to make the best spaghetti and homemade pickles requested every time they came to visit. Her hobbies extended beyond cooking, as she also loved watching the birds in her backyard and spending time with her dogs that she loved like members of the family. Doris was proud to be a member of the Garden Club, where her passion for flowers and plants blossomed, alongside the friendships she made there. She also was an invaluable employee as a UMMC Conference Center Coordinator. Doris was a proud mother of Cindy Smith and Rick Nell Jr., who brought her immense joy throughout her life. She adored her three granddaughters, Haley, Skylar, and Hannah, who knew her as Memaw. Together, they made memories that last a lifetime. She also enjoyed every moment that she got to spend with her two great grandchildren, Palmer and Ben. She loved her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren deeply and would talk about them any chance she got.

Doris is proceeded in death by her parents, Floyd and Ruby Burkes. She is survived by her loving husband, Richard A. Nell; children Cindy Smith (Rodney) and Rick Nell Jr; her sister Sharon Hensarling; grandchildren Haley Burrell (Seth), Skylar Nell, and Hannah Smith (Chad); great grandchildren Palmer Attkisson and Benjamin Burrell; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers: Rodney Smith, Seth Burrell, Chad Penny, Brent Hensarling, Michael Manley, and Winston Lott.

A visitation will be held on March 2, 2026 from 12:00-2:00 p.m. that will be followed by a funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m. Both of these will be located at Chancellor Funeral Home in Byram, Mississippi. Doris will then be laid to rest at Lakewood Memorial Park South Cemetery following the service.

Visitation and Funeral:

Chancellor Funeral Home

7225 S Siwell Rd.

Byram, Ms., 39272

Graveside:

Lakewood Memorial Park South Cemetery

430 McCluer Rd

Jackson, Ms., 39212