Doris Jean Meeks, beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, great-grandmother, and friend, departed this life on Monday, February 9, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.

Born on January 4, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, Doris was the eldest child of the late Johnie and Lorene Goolsby. She was raised with strong family values and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that would guide her throughout her life.

Doris was a proud graduate of John Adams High School. She continued her education at Ohio University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree, and later obtained her Master’s degree from Cleveland State University. She dedicated nearly 30 years of service to the Cleveland Metropolitan School District as a devoted educator. Even after retiring, Doris remained committed to uplifting young people by tutoring children and mentoring troubled youth. Her passion for education and community service reflected her generous spirit and unwavering belief in giving back.

She dedicated nearly 30 years of service to the Cleveland Metropolitan School District as a devoted educator. She was a proud member of Phi Delta Kappa, the first education organization for teachers of color. Even after retiring, Doris remained committed to uplifting young people by tutoring children and mentoring troubled youth. Her passion for education and community service reflected her generous spirit and unwavering belief in giving back.

In 1972, Doris married Howard Meeks of Cleveland, and from this union two sons were born. Her family was her greatest joy, and she poured love and wisdom into every generation.

Doris was a faithful and cherished member of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church and an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She was admired for her kindness, strength, compassion, and dedication to her faith and community.

She was preceded in death by her sister-in-law, Carla Goolsby, and her nephew, Kevin Schiffer.

Doris will be lovingly remembered by ; two sons, Andre’ Meeks and Kevin Meeks; one sister, Dr. Annie Goolsby; two brothers, Johnie Goolsby Jr. and Fred Goolsby; one sister-in-law, Yvette Whitaker; one brother-in-law, Jonathan Meeks (Marian); one grandson, Kevin Alan Meeks; her significant other, Ras Khalifa; one great-granddaughter, Myylani Stewart; six nieces and nephews, Antoine Goolsby, Marilyn Goolsby-Ford, John-Richard Ford, Terry Schiffer, Jonathan Meeks Jr., and Tina Meeks; and a host of other relatives, friends, and loved ones who will forever cherish her memory.

Her legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to live on in the many lives she touched.