Doris Ruth Vail, 87, of The Villages, Florida, died peacefully at home with her partner at her side on October 11, 2023.
She moved to The Villages in 2016 with her lifetime partner, Helen M. Hardbower. Doris was born in Loveland, Colorado to the late Donald Vail and Dorothy Carey. Doris is preceded in death by her siblings, Donna Helwig and Dexter Vail. She is survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends whom she dearly loved.
She was active in the Tri-County Women’s Veterans, and a member of The Rainbow Family and Friends. She had an adventurous spirit, loved people and life and enjoyed traveling, golfing, bowling and dancing. Her laugh and smile were as big as her heart.
Doris, in her 26 years of Naval service, retired as Captain, and was known for her success in pioneering women’s opportunities in the Navy. She was presented with an award demonstrating superior performance in all phases of her duties, displaying unparalleled, comprehensive knowledge of Navy Manpower, Personnel and Training. The positive impact she had in this arena was of incalculable value to the Navy and will be felt for many years. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in special education from University of Denver. She received her doctoral degree from George Washington University. Among her other awards and decorations are Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Legion of Merit award and Medal for outstanding achievements. In later years, she published a book detailing her achievements as the first female Navy Trailblazer.
She will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made in Doris’s memory to VITAS Hospice, 6909 Old Hwy 441, Suite 105, Mount Dora, Fl 32757.