Juanita Jane Doyel

Juanita “Nita” Doyel, a beloved school teacher for 35 years, passed away on September 30, 2023, in Medford, Oregon. She was born in 1930, in South Dakota. Nita dedicated her life to shaping young minds by her passion to teach second graders the lifelong skills of phonics and reading.

After graduating with a teaching degree from Dakota State University in 1955, Nita embarked on a fulfilling career as a teacher. She touched the lives of countless second graders and their parents, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. She taught at many schools in the state of Oregon and her final years of teaching were spent at Hoover Elementary School in Medford, where she made a lasting impact on both students and faculty.

Nita was not only known for her dedication to teaching but also for her delightful holiday traditions. She had a special fondness for all holidays and would spend hours in the kitchen baking an array of cookies to create gift baskets for those she loved. Her delicious homemade Christmas cookies were a staple of faculty lounges in every school where she taught.

In addition to her passion for teaching and baking, Nita cherished her hobbies and interests. She found solace in the adventures of Winnie the Pooh and enjoyed delving into romance and light mystery books. These pastimes allowed her to escape into captivating worlds and unwind from the demands of everyday life.

One of Nita’s other passions was with her beloved dog, Sugar.  Sugar was the neighborhood’s dog and was a passionate companion for her for 14 years.  Many of the children fondly remember Nita in her many adventures with Sugar in the back of her Scout driving into the woods to cut firewood.  On other days, Nita and Sugar would be with each other tending to one of her many gardens she planted in the back yard over her lifetime.  Her South Dakota roots and work ethic never ever left her.

But above all else, Nita was a nurturing wife, mother, grandma, and great grandma. She cherished every moment spent with her family and created an environment filled with love and care. Her devotion knew no bounds as she showered affection upon her husband Frank throughout their 44 year marriage.

Nita is survived by her sister, Bonnie (98); her two sons, Kyle and Tobin; daughters-in-law, Linh and Terri; grandchildren, Jessika, Kymberly, Christina (who lovingly served as her caregiver), Chase and Makenzie; great-grandchildren, Seth, Makayla, Kaitlyn, Owen, Logan; and a host of extended family and friends. She held each one dear to her heart ensuring that they felt cherished and supported.

Nita Doyel will forever be remembered as a compassionate teacher, a master baker, and a devoted matriarch. Her kindness, warmth and nurturing nature touched the lives of many, leaving an enduring impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will continue to shine brightly through the lives she touched throughout her remarkable journey.