Doris Claire Ralston, age 95 of Meadowbrook, PA passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA to the late Elmer and Angela (Merryman) Schum. Doris graduated from Frankford High School in 1948. She met her first husband, Richard Ralston, at a skating club, Rhythm Aces. She married in 1949 and became a wonderful wife and mother. She began working as a telephone operator for Bell Telephone and retired in 1990 after 35 hardworking years. She was able to save two lives during her career because of her ability to perform Heimlich maneuver.  Unfortunately, Richard passed away suddenly at 49 years old. Doris became a single mother for several years, making sure to assist other young widows in their time of need. She was a member of the Bell Telephone Pioneers Club. After her retirement, her work ethic was still unwavering, taking on several more jobs to keep herself busy. Blessed to find love in later years, Doris eloped with George Zauflik, their happy union lasted nine years until George's passing in 2015.

Doris was a member and Sunday school teacher for Holmesburg Baptist Church, an active contributor of Boy Scout Troop #75, where Richard was a Scout Master, Home and School Association at J. H. Brown and senior citizen ministries in Northeast Philadelphia. Above all else, Doris was one of the most empathetic people that you could ever meet. She would give you any support you needed, even if you were not her own family.

Daughter of the late Elmer and Angela (Merryman) Schum, Wife of the late Richard Ralston and George Zauflik; Sister of the late Richard Schum. Doris is survived by her loving children, Richard, Dean (Susan) and Gary (Beth); beloved grandchildren, Theresa, Richard Jr., James, Michelle, Christopher, Glenn, Dean II, Matthew, Daniel, Nicole; twenty-eight precious great-grandchildren; six cherished great-great-grandchildren. As well as several nieces, nephews and cousins to share fond memories.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Doris' funeral service at 10 AM on Friday, December 20, 2024 at Kirk and Nice Suburban Chapel.

Friends may call from 9 AM until service time to share fond memories.

Doris will be laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery following services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Doris' name may be made to St. Joseph's Manor – Evergreen unit. 1616 Huntingdon Pike, Meadowbrook, PA 19046. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of St. Joseph's Manor – Evergreen unit for all their care and kindness that they had given to Doris over the past several years.