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Dr. Doris Alberta Kerns Eddins, of Buffalo, N.Y., and formerly of rural Ridgeway, died Tuesday, March 13, 2018, at the McAuley Residence in Buffalo.
Although she was 101, friends and family would understand her deep pleasure in saying she lived to see her 102nd year. She was doubly blessed to live all but her remaining few days in her own home.
Doris was born March 4, 1917, in Logan County to the late William Dana and Alberta Hoover Kerns. The youngest of six children, she was preceded in death by brothers, George, Kenneth and Alton, all of rural Ridgeway, and sisters, Norma Goff of Kenton and Erma Dienst of Bowling Green. She was also preceded in death by her devoted husband and friend, Lloyd Gordon Eddins. She is survived by a niece, Barbara (Dr. Richard) Tighe of Mission Viejo, Calif., and their children, Laura Tighe Buehner and Michael (Cathleen) Tighe, both of California and David (Gina) Tighe of rural Ridgeway. She also leaves behind a dear friend and long-time caregiver, Juanita Merchant of Buffalo, N.Y.
Doris began her education at the Quaken Asp School in Bokescreek Township. She graduated from Ridgeway High School. She received her bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate from Bowling Green State University.
She taught school for several years before pursuing her master’s degree in education from the University of Chicago. She ultimately obtained her doctorate degree in literature from the University of Michigan. She went on to serve as professor of children’s literature at Buffalo State University where she served enthusiastically until her retirement.
She was a champion of the children’s literature movement from its infancy in America.
She believed in the power of reading to educate, but also to inspire the young generation to live moral and worthwhile lives. She was a great admirer of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s work and wrote A Teacher’s Tribute to Laura Ingalls Wilder which was published by Scott Foresman and Co.
Dr. Kerns Eddins accomplished many noteworthy achievements in her lifetime, but she was perhaps most proud of her work in preserving the family farm near Ridgeway. She and Lloyd toiled during their summers to create a dwelling from the original barn and farmhouse. Doris received great pleasure from establishing a small orchard, receiving the Ohio Centennial Farm designation, creating a gathering place for friends and family, and living to see the farm return to family cultivation.
Doris was a great believer in the ability of small communities to produce world-class individuals. She was an ardent supporter of Ridgemont Local Schools and the pursuit of higher learning opportunities. Her strong spirit and determination will be missed by all who knew her.
A private celebration of life for immediate family members is planned at the family farm in the fall.