Mary Lois Younger Doss

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Lois Younger Doss, who peacefully passed away at her home in Clover, Virginia on Monday, September 28 at the age of 91.

Mary Lois was born on February 11, 1935 in Halifax County to the late Hubert Merritt Younger, Sr. and the late Elizabeth (Libby) Owen Younger. She was married to the love of her life, Edward Lanier Doss, Sr. for 68 years.

Mary Lois grew up on a tobacco farm in the Republican Grove community, attended Volens High School, was a member of the first graduating class of Halifax County Senior High School, and attended Phillips Business College in Lynchburg, Virginia. Through the years, she worked in banking, in the office of a tobacco warehouse, and at Tultex. However, she devoted most of her working years to assisting her husband with his well-drilling business while caring for their home and raising their children. She also generously gave her time to others, volunteering with the Ladies Auxiliary at Halifax Regional Hospital and serving her church in various roles, including as a Girls in Action leader.

She was a beloved wife, devoted mother, loving grandmother, and a woman whose strength, faith, and love touched everyone who was blessed to know her. Her family was her greatest joy, and she loved each of them with her whole heart.

More than a mother and grandmother, Mary Lois was the heart of her family. Some of their most treasured memories were made sitting together on the porch watching the birds, playing games around her kitchen table, attending the sporting events of her children and grandchildren, taking trips to the mountains, spending time on the family farm, talking, laughing, and simply enjoying one another’s company. She had a beautiful way of turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories that her family will cherish for generations.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, her faith, strength, love, and the lessons she taught will live on through all those she leaves behind. We find comfort in knowing she is now in the arms of her Lord and Savior, reunited with her beloved husband, and their love continues beyond this life.

Mary Lois is survived by her daughter, Lanette Doss Spencer (Tommy) of Halifax; son, Edward (Eddy) Lanier Doss Jr. of Cary, NC; four grandchildren, Lauren Elizabeth Spencer (Kenny Mitchell) of Halifax, Alyssa Lanier Spencer (Travis Cash) of South Boston, Kayla Nicole Spencer (Dalton Blanks) of Halifax, and Colt Lanier Doss of Cary, NC; and one great-grandchild, Blakely Rayne Cash of South Boston.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and her brother, Hubert (Hugh) Merritt Younger, Jr.

Funeral services will be held at Dan River Baptist Church in Halifax, Virginia on Thursday, October 1 at 11 AM with the Rev. Dr. John Campbell presiding. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service and at other times at the home of Mary Lois Doss.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Halifax County Cancer Association or a charity of your choice in Mary Lois’ memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, INC, 1603 Wilborn Ave., South Boston, VA 24592