Cover photo for Doris L. Zanis's Obituary
Doris L. Zanis Profile Photo
1928 Doris 2024

Doris L. Zanis

March 23, 1928 — May 22, 2024

Doris L. Zanis (Flavell, Gowdy) passed away peacefully on May 22, 2024. Born on March 23, 1928, in the same welcoming town, Doris's life was made of devotion, love, and unwavering faith.
Doris's early years in Manchester set the stage for a life rich in family and music. She was predeceased her first husband, Donald Gowdy Sr., and later George Zanis Sr., her beloved spouse of 42 years. As well as Jerry Spinola, her son-in-law, and Kevin Gowdy, her grandson.
Doris was the cherished mother of Susan (Gowdy) Spinola of Oneonta, NY, and Donald Gowdy Jr. (Kathi) of Manchester, CT. She was the stepmother to four stepsons, George Zanis Jr., Paul Zanis (Julie), Matthew Zanis (Helen), and Joe Zanis. Her role as a grandmother brought her immense joy, and she leaves behind her adored grandchildren, Katie Dee (Devin), Erik (Leslie), Sarah (David), Ian, TeriLynn (Richie), Melanie (Rich), and Rhonda, along with 17 great-grandchildren who will miss her dearly. Doris also held a special place in the hearts of her dear friends and neighbors, David and Rick, who remember her fondly.
Doris spent many years working in the music business, a passion that was evident to anyone who met her. She began her career at Beller's in Manchester, where she was known for her knowledge of music and her warm, engaging personality. Later, she brought her love for music to The Disc on the UCONN campus. She was a woman of God, and her devotion to her faith was as much a part of her as her love for her family and music.
Doris's life was a testament to the beauty that can be found in dedication to family, passion for one's interests, and unwavering faith. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Calling Hours will be held on Tuesday, May 28th from 4pm till 7pm at Holmes Watkins Funeral Home (400 Main Street, Manchester CT). A Funeral Home Service will take place on Wednesday, May 29th between 9am and 10am at Holmes Watkins Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Center Cemetery (1405 Boston Turnpike, Coventry CT). To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Doris L. Zanis, please visit our flower store.

Photo Gallery

Guestbook

Visits: 0

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Send Flowers

Send Flowers

Plant A Tree

Plant A Tree