Doris Jones, a beautiful soul born on April 5, 1953, in Fall River, MA, USA, passed away in peace on June 21, 2026. Emily Dickinson once wrote, "Unable are the loved to die, for love is immortality." Indeed, Doris' love and spirit are immortal, living on in the hearts of those she touched throughout her time with us.

Doris spent her life in Swansea, Massachusetts, where she became known for her resilience, warmth, and unwavering spirit.

She was the devoted mother of Wayne Freitas of Swansea, Massachusetts, and the proud grandmother of Tyler of Tiverton, Rhode Island.

Doris is also survived by her beloved brother, Gary P. Merkt and his wife, Sheila, of Carson City, Nevada; her loving sister, Jacqueline Mendonca of Fall River, Massachusetts; and many cherished nieces and nephews who will forever treasure her memory.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Antoinette Merkt. Doris was predeceased by her beloved family members, Richard Merkt, Robert Barboza, Antoinette LePage, Stephen Merkt, Deborah Soares, and Henry Merkt.

Doris found great joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved cooking for those she cared about and spending time at the beach, where she especially enjoyed watching the beauty of the sunsets. Her warmth, gentle spirit, and love for her family will be remembered always.

Her family takes comfort in the many wonderful memories they shared with her and in knowing that her love will continue to live on in their hearts forever.

Friends and Family are cordially invited to attend a public visitation which will be held at the Southcoast Funeral Home, inside of the Ferreira Chapel, 1555 Pleasant Street, Fall River, Massachusetts, 02723, on Friday, June 26, 2026, 10 AM - 12 PM. The Catholic Funeral Home Service will follow at 12 PM presided over by Father Maurice Gauvin, followed by a committal service at Oak Grove Cemetery, 765 Prospect Street, Fall River, Massachusetts, 02720, at 1:00 PM.

Doris' memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her. To honor her life, we encourage friends and family to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page. Reflecting on and sharing these moments can help us all remember the joy and love that Doris brought into our lives. Her light may have dimmed in this world, but her spirit continues to shine brightly in our hearts.

The funeral home offers a lighted parking lot which is available on the corner of Boutwell and Pleasant Street, (opposite corner of the funeral home) and our facility has a handicap-accessible ramp and entrance.

Services are humbly entrusted into the care of Southcoast Funeral Homes at Ferreira Chapel "Celebrating A Life Well Lived"