Doris Williams Obituary

Doris Williams (Best known as Polly), a cherished figure in the lives of many, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and a spirit that touched all who knew her. Born on November 10, 1938, in Shady Grove, Alabama, Polly radiated warmth and kindness throughout her life, embodying the very essence of a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

Polly was first married to Lewis Merritt from Helicon, Alabama. Lewis would often ride his bicycle just so he could spend time with Polly. The two fell in love and out of their union they had seven beautiful children. Her passion for helping others drew her to Pike Manor Nursing Home, where she dedicated 13 years of her life to working as a Nursing Assistant. Her unwavering commitment to her work was evident, as she proudly never missed a day, earning accolades such as employee of the year several times. Her dedication was not just a testament to her work ethic but also to her heart for caring for those in need, always going above and beyond, even walking to work if ever her car broke down. After marrying her beloved husband, Vernon Henry Williams, Sr., Polly embarked on a journey that took her all the way to Massachusetts, where she worked as a Dietician at Brigham and Women's Hospital.

Polly was not only admired for her professional achievements but also for her vibrant spirit and love for family. Sundays were especially sacred, as they were days filled with love and laughter, with family gathered around her table after church, enjoying her delicious cooking. Polly had a special way of bringing joy into the home with her culinary skills—she was famed for her dumplings, chocolate cakes, caramel cakes, and sweet potato pies. Each dish prepared lovingly, often accompanied by the catchy tune she crafted, “Shady Baby,” which she would serenade her grandchildren with, creating cherished memories that will forever resonate in their hearts.

An avid gardener, Polly tended to her garden with affection, especially her cherished fig tree, from which she would make delightful fig preserves. Her love for nature was reflected not only in her gardening but also in her enthusiasm for canning and preserving the bounty she nurtured.

Polly embraced life with open arms, frequently participating in school socials where she delighted in dancing, her favorite being the jitterbug. She was known for her infectious joy, her ability to never meet a stranger, and her belief in doing everything with excellence. Her heart was profoundly aligned with her faith, often participating in church activities and cherishing her extended church family. Her favorite Bible verse, Psalms 23, served as a guiding light throughout her life.

As an educator at heart, Polly imparted vital lessons to her children, reminding them early on of the importance of financial wisdom, often saying, "Your credit will speak for you even if you don't have a dime in your pocket." These teachings, along with her immense love, will continue to resonate through her children and grandchildren.

Doris Williams (Polly) leaves behind a treasured legacy of compassion and dedication, forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her loving children, Dwight Merritt, Lloyd Merritt (Flora Merritt), Fredrick Merritt, Gerome Merritt, Cathy DeJesus (Jesus DeJesus), and Latonya Merritt, her 15 Grandchildren, and 19 Great-Grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Vernon Henry Williams, Sr., her son, Floyd Merritt, her parents, Robert and Sallie Cora Blaire Teague, and her siblings, Loccie Teague Allen, WM James Teague, Jr., Will Lewis Teague, and Robert Teague, Jr.

To honor her life and the indelible mark she left on the world, friends and family will gather for a funeral service on August 2, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Green Hills Funeral Home in Troy, Alabama, followed by her burial at Rock Elvy Missionary Baptist Church in Goshen, Alabama. Her memory will live on in the hearts of many, a testament to a life beautifully lived.

The staff of Green Hills Funeral Home are honored to serve the Merritt / Williams Family.