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On Thursday, June 4, 2026, God, in His infinite wisdom, called His faithful servant, Doris Olivia Hale Boykin, from labor to reward. While our hearts are saddened by her passing, we rejoice in knowing that she has entered into eternal rest with her LORD and SAVIOR. Doris was born in Minter, Alabama, to Peggy L. Draine and Faro Hale, who preceded her in death. She was raised in a loving family and was the third child of nine siblings, while sharing a beautiful extended family that included thirteen bonus sisters and brothers.
Doris received her education at Emmanuel M. Brown High School and was raised in Christian faith, attending Allen Chapel Church in Minter, Alabama. Later, Doris relocated to Brooklyn, NY where she built lasting friendships and treasured memories. She was employed as jewelry maker while living in New York. After returning to Alabama with her family in 1986, Doris earned her Associate Degree in Accounting and later retired from International Paper. She proudly volunteered as secretary at Emmanuel M. Brown Board for many years. She joined Second Missionary Baptist Church in East Selma, Alabama. She faithfully served the Lord through the Choir Ministry and the Usher Board Ministry, sharing her warm spirit, beautiful smile, and unwavering devotion with her church family. Later she joined Elbethel Baptist Church in Selma, AL. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Doris shared a remarkable love story with her beloved husband, Isiah "Ike" Boykin. Together they enjoyed 59 years of marriage, building a life rooted in faith, commitment, and family. Their bond remained strong until his passing on November 7, 2021.
Doris is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Isiah "Ike" Boykin; her lovely daughter, Denise Olivia; her siblings Lula Bell Hale Lynn, Arthur Dean, Laura Mae, Edward, Walter Charles, Aleen, Celestine, Annie C., and Inez; her aunts Annette Davis Williams, Cathrine Moorer, and Jennie Bell Draine; her uncle George Draine, David Moorer Sr and Mark Williams; sisters-in-law Nellie ("Nell"), Flora, Marie, Nazareth, Gweneth, and Ruby; brothers-in-law Edmore, Marshand, Matthew, James, Israel, Andrew, Clarence and Jerry; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loved ones who welcomed her into eternal glory. Though her passing leaves a profound void, Doris leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, kindness, and family devotion. Cherishing her precious memories are her devoted and loving daughter, Melissa Boykin and her adoring son, Isiah Boykin, Jr, devoted daughter-in-law, Vanessa Reynolds..; her beloved grandchildren, Isiah III, Kevonte, Ta’ Varras, and Ta’ Tyanna her treasured great-grandchildren, Isiah IV, Jeremiah, and Skylar Boykin; her brothers Pharoah (Annie), Ezell (Emma), and Alphonso (Betty); sisters Dasiey Louisa and Wyvonia Hale of Montgomery, Al; her extended siblings Erskine (Diane), Margaret, Johnny Mae, Ariel Lee, Joanne, Viola(John), Anne Laura, Clifton Lee (Brenda), Alfred John, and Junior Sam (Arrellia); sisters-in-law Ida and Katie; a favorite brother-in-law Donald {Donlynn} ; and a multitude of devoted cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and loved ones who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.
Doris was known for her gentle spirit, loving heart, and unwavering dedication to her family and faith. She found joy in fellowship, worship, and spending time with those she loved. Her life was a testament to grace, perseverance, and the power of unconditional love.
While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will continue through the many lives she touched. Her love, wisdom, and faith will remain a guiding light for generations to come.
Funeral services have been scheduled for Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 12 Noon from the Elbethel Baptist Church with Pastor Trenton Pressley, officiating. Burial will follow in the Boykin Family Cemetery with Aubrey Larkin's Lewis Brothers Funeral Home serving with excellence through professional service. Ms. Boykin will lie in repose one hour prior to the funeral hour at the church.
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.