Mrs. Doris Burgess Koger

“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.”    — Revelations 21:4

She graced the world with her presence, one we will never forget!  The journey of the earthly life for Mrs. Doris Elizabeth Burgess Koger began on Monday, May 3, 1954, in Colleton County, South Carolina.  She was the beloved daughter of the Late Mr. Johnny Burgess and the Late Mrs. Josephine Sanders Burgess. 

Born and raised in the loving embrace of the close-knit Ritter Community of Walterboro, SC, Mrs. Doris was surrounded by love, family and faith, which became the cornerstone of her life.  Doris’s life was built on the values of faith, family, and community, infused early in life by her parents.

On Friday, January 10, 2025, at Pruitt Health Center in Walterboro, South Carolina, Mrs. Doris answered her heavenly Father’s call as she peacefully transitioned from her earthly life and traveled to her eternal heavenly home.  Her legacy is one of unwavering faith, unconditional love, and tireless service to others.

Doris is a 1972 graduate of Walterboro High School.  She attended and received her education in the public schools of Colleton County, South Carolina where she developed a love for learning and a strong sense of purpose.  She exemplified determination and grace, always striving to give her best in everything she pursued.

Early in life, she gave her heart to Christ and became a faithful and active member of Cumberland United Methodist Church, Ritter, SC. Her church was her spiritual foundation, over the years where her faith grew stronger as she served her church family in various capacities, offering her time, talents, and resources to glorify God.

Whether through prayer, sharing of the Word, service or song, Doris embodied the love of Christ in all she did.

Mrs. Doris was a woman of many gifts, none more evident than her ability to connect with people. She was known for her sweet but bold personality. Her voice, rich and powerful, often filled the air and lifting spirits with her favorite hymn, “I  Feel Alright,” a song that continues to resonate in the hearts of those who knew her, as it always left a lasting impression with everyone.

Known for her loving spirit and heart of service, her calling to care for others extended beyond her family and church. Doris devoted her professional life to serving as a compassionate Home Health Nurse. With an inherent ability to nurture, she cared for countless families and their loved ones across Colleton County, providing not just medical attention but also comfort, emotional support and companionship. She became a trusted figure in her community, well known for her selflessness and tender heart.  Her impact was far-reaching, as she nurtured both bodies and souls with kindness, compassion, and a gentle touch.

Doris was united in Holy Matrimony to Israel Althonia Koger and to this union they were blessed and welcomed two children, Israel Miguel Koger and Greg Althonia Koger. 

Doris is preceded in death by her husband, Israel; parents, Johnny and Josephine Burgess; brothers, Elder John Henry Burgess and Charles Matthew Burgess.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.”  – Psalm 116:15

With heavy hearts we will dearly miss her sweet and outspoken physical presence. She leaves so many memories filled with love, joy and happiness that will remain alive in the hearts of her loved ones to cherish, her sons, Israel Miguel Koger (Melicent) and Greg Althonia Koger; her grandchildren, Gianna (Bobby), Thelma Shonari, Deja, Arreyon, Amonie, Aundiya, Ma’Kiyah,  Aniyah and Amiyah; five (5) great-grandchildren, siblings, Elder Sherman Gethers (Hannah) of Ritter, SC; Annette Garrett Rivers of Ritter, SC; Pastor Delores Pickett (Pastor Adrian) of Jacksonville, FL; Asbury Burgess (Linda) of Green Pond, SC and Inez Francis of Green Pond, SC; sister-in-law, Letha Mae Burgess (the late John Henry Burgess) of Ritter, SC.  She also leaves behind a legacy of love and faith cherished by a host of family, friends, and community members who were blessed to share in her life.

Her earthly journey may have come to an end, but her spirit lives on, a beacon of love, kindness, and faith that will shine brightly for generations to come.

May her soul Feel Alright and rest in peace.

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