Doris Jean (Hoff) Orbaugh , age 96, of Elwood, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Ascension St. Vincent Mercy Hospital in Elwood, after a long and beautifully lived life. Born on October 26, 1929, in Henry County, Indiana, she was the cherished daughter of Ralph Charles and Lela B. (Bennett) Hoff. Doris Jean's life was one of dedication, warmth, and kindness. A proud 1947 graduate of Kennard High School, she went on to earn her master's degree in education from Ball State University, reflecting her lifelong love of learning.

Doris Jean married the love of her life, Myron M. Orbaugh, on July 24, 1955, and together they shared 24 years of marriage, filled with love and devotion, until his passing in 1979. As a beloved 4th grade teacher at Edgewood Elementary School for 23 years, Doris Jean touched the lives of countless students with her gentle guidance and caring spirit, retiring in 1993.

A faithful Christian, Doris Jean found joy and friendship as a longtime member of East Main Street Christian Church and later, Heritage Christian Church in Elwood. Her zest for life was evident in all she did—whether gathering with her friends in the Mad Hatters of the Red Hat Society, playing cards, or keeping in touch with Myron's classmates.

Music was one of Doris Jean's greatest joys, and she delighted in playing the piano, often accompanying her students, friends, her daughter, and granddaughter. She was a puzzle enthusiast, especially during the winter months, and a dedicated Chicago Cubs fan, cheerfully keeping her own stats year after year.  Doris Jean loved bird watching, tending to her flowers, and was an avid reader, reading the bible twice.

Above all, Doris Jean's greatest legacy is her love for her family and her unwavering kindness to all who knew her. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with loved ones who passed before her, especially her beloved husband.

Doris Jean is survived by her son, David S. (Cathy) Orbaugh of Kokomo; daughter, Tracy Ann (Nancy Moulder) Orbaugh of Milton, IN; 2 sisters, Merry (Gary) Dupke of Valrico, FL, and Terry (Paul) Willams of Richmond, IN; 2 grandchildren, Terri Kay (James) Wilson of Elwood, and Lora (Brent) Munns of Elwood; 4 great-grandchildren, Jakob Wilson (fiancé Avery Pittman), Annaka (Seth) Mireles, Emma Munns, and Katie Munns; great-great-granddaughter, Abigail Mireles; and several nieces and nephews.  Doris Jean is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Myron M. Orbaugh; brother, Verlin F. Hoff; sister, Barbara Bertram

A memorial service celebrating Doris Jean's life will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday, December 22, 2025 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Rev. Roger Gardner of Heritage Christian Church in Elwood officiating.  A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm prior to the service on Monday, December 22, 2025 at Copher-Fesler-may Funeral Home.  Burial will take place at a later date at Elwood City Cemetery.  Memorial contributions are suggested to Heritage Christian Church through the funeral home.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.