M. Irene Doran

M. Irene Doran, 95, of Springfield Township and Milford, Ohio, passed away January 21, 2026.  Born on January 31, 1930, in Yankton, South Dakota, Irene grew up on the family farm with her parents Robert and Violet Smith and her brother Art. Her parents’ siblings James and Mattie Smith, and their sons Warren and Jim, were a huge part of her childhood and she considered Warren and Jim her “other brothers.”

After graduating as valedictorian of her class, she completed the secretarial program at Wayne State in Nebraska.  Soon after, she married Darrel Doran. He received his draft notice for the Korean War on their wedding day (but didn’t tell her until after the ceremony). He was able to get a brief deferment so they could go on their honeymoon.  After his return from Korea, she worked at the local utility and helped put him through college. Upon his graduation, they moved to Cincinnati for his new job, and Irene worked as a substitute secretary for Mt. Healthy City Schools for over 30 years.

A talented host, Irene made sure everyone felt welcome and comfortable, whether in their home or at a church get together. Darrel and Irene enjoyed many years of church activities, travel, and square dancing, through which they made great friends. They were married for over 75 years, and Irene lived only nine days without him.

She is survived by her daughters, Sheryl Melvin (John) and Diane Doran (James Pyle), along with her grandchildren: Sarah Melvin (Cindy), Luke Melvin (Lauren), Rebecca Taylor (Robert), and Hannah Wright (Tanner).  She also leaves eleven great-grandchildren.

A memorial service for both Irene and Darrel will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church- Community Garden Fund https://www.popluther.org/give.

Our family appreciates the love and support shown during this challenging time and asks that you share your fondest memories of Irene, as those stories will keep her spirit alive in our hearts.