William E. Doran

September 5, 1932 - December 24, 2010
William E. Doran


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William E. Doran of Carolina Beach, NC and formerly of Madison County, AL passed away Friday, December 24, 2010 at Autumn Care, Myrtle Grove, Wilmington.

Born September 5, 1932 he was the son of Charles and Lura Doran of New Hope, Alabama.

Bill retired from the United States Navy as a Commander. He served aboard various ships in his 38 year career traveling the world, and was Director of Navy Exchanges in Norfolk, VA and was Officer in charge of the Commissary Stores region in Pearl Harbor, HI.

Bill was a caring, loving and supportive father to both his children and stepchildren mentoring and lending advice throughout the years to family and friends. He was dearly loved by all who knew him.

Bill was happiest when he was on the golf course with his buddies (shipmates) playing many courses in North/South Carolina, Virginia and military bases in the US and overseas.

He is survived by his wife Portia Doran, son Bill Doran and daughter in law Kelly Strickland of Wilmington, NC, daughter Vicki Doran of Raleigh, NC stepdaughter Leann Bevans of Hendersonville, NC and stepson John Best of Virginia Beach, VA; sister Margaret Motley of New Hope, AL and various nieces, cousins and special friends.

If you have ever been to a Military Funeral where taps were played; the words are: Day is done, gone the sun, all is well. Safely rest. God is nigh. Fading light dims the sight, and a star gems the sky gleaming bright. Thanks and praise for our days neath the sun, neath the stars with you…

Bill will be inurned with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

Fair winds and following seas sailor….

Please make memorial contributions to North Shore Animal League, 16 Lewyt Street, Port Washington, NY 11050. www.AnimalLeague.org

Please share memories and condolences by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Burial and Cremation Service, 1535 S 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • December 29, 2010
    George and Kathleen Horey says:
    Dear Portia and Family: We were sorry to see the notice of Bill's passing. I enjoyed playing golf and poker with him over the years. Be assured of our prayers for you and the family. George and Kathleen

  • December 29, 2010
    Paul E. McArdle says:
    With a tear in my eye and smile on my lips I note with sadness the passing of Bill Doran, to us his golfing pals, "The Admiral." We four, John, Gary, Bill and I, laughed and talked the sun down the sky for many years. Then Bill met the delightful Portia, sunny, bright and cheerful, and off to Norfolk they went. He was a special man, Bill Doran. Those who knew him have lost a glimmer of light, of bonhomie. A boon companion. Sincerest condolences to Portia and all members of the family. Paul

  • December 29, 2010
    Tracy Lucas Edwards says:
    Portia and the entire Doran family, prayers are with you during this difficult time. I have such fond memories of Commander Doran when I worked at the Uniform Shop with Eleanor in the early 80's. Memories are forever! Sincerely, Tracy Lucas Edwards

  • December 29, 2010
    Ray Rothrock says:
    My thoughts and prayers are with all of Bill's family. I have known him a long time; however, have not seen him in many years. May God Bless and be with you during this difficult time. Regards, Ray Rothrock

  • December 30, 2010
    Anne and Bill Corr says:
    Dear Portia and Family, Bill and I have thought of you and Bill so often. We have such fond memories of Bill and the good times we shared with you all at the beach. We send our love and sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. Love, Anne