Doris S. McNamara, 66, of Ashland, MA, passed away on April 23, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Natick, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of the late Jean F. Nunez and Ralph Hayden. She was raised in Framingham and attended Framingham South High School. She later moved to Ashland, Massachusetts, where she raised her own family.

Doris was the beloved wife of Joseph P. McNamara. Together, they shared 41 years, 39 married, building a life grounded in commitment, resilience, and devotion to family. It was also a lifetime built on love, laughter, and an unbreakable friendship. As husband and wife, they were rarely apart, choosing to spend each day side by side, finding joy in both the ordinary and the extraordinary moments of life. Their relationship was filled with humor – quick wit, playful teasing, and inside jokes that only deepened their bond over the years. More than partners, they were truly best friends, supporting one another through life's ups and downs, as well as celebrating its many blessings together. Their love stands as a beautiful example of companionship, devotion, and the simple happiness found in being together. Through it all, their love of their family remained at the center.

She was a very proud and loving mother to Hallie J. Hicks (Mark Rice IV) of Westborough, Massachusetts; Caitlin Koopman (Stephen Koopman) of Uxbridge, Massachusetts; and Lucas J. McNamara (Helen McNamara) of Milford, Massachusetts. Her children meant everything to her.

Doris lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and a deep love for her family. To be present for her two youngest children, she spent several years as a home daycare provider for SMOC and summertime nanny. She also served as a cafeteria manager and crossing guard for Ashland Public Schools. Her caring nature touched the lives of many families.

Once her children were grown, Doris continued her career with the Ashland and Holliston Housing Authorities and the Mill Pond Rest House. She was never one to sit still, holding additional part-time jobs and took pride in staying busy and contributing to her household. Despite her many responsibilities, her home was always immaculate and dinner was always ready.

Outside of work, Doris found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved to read, listen to music; attending an occasional concert with her husband, do Sudoku puzzles, crocheted/knitted for a stretch, and enjoyed the nightly routine with her husband. Doris also cherished summertime, making lasting memories with her family by the pool and at the ocean. She especially loved her summers in Brant Rock, Massachusetts, and her annual winter trips to Aruba, where she enjoyed collecting sea glass, soaking in the warm rays of the sun, and taking in the beauty of her surroundings.

Doris had a natural ability to provide comfort and hospitality to those around her. Her friends and family would attest that she made everyone feel like the most important person in the room and had a way of assuring them that everything would be okay. She welcomed others with home-cooked meals, a warm heart, and a listening ear. She especially loved hosting holidays and making sure everyone had a special birthday party, creating countless cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of her loved ones.

Above all, Doris's greatest joy was her family—especially her children and grandchildren. She was the very best Nana anyone could have. Her love for her grandchildren—Sophia Rice, April Blair, Brianna Blair, and Natalie Koopman—was boundless. She was eagerly awaiting the arrival of another grandchild, her first grandson, James Lucas McNamara, in May 2026. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and they felt her love in everything she did. They always knew how much Nana loved

them. Nana and Papa's house was filled with games, arts and crafts, and plenty of well-balanced snacks. If they were going to enjoy S'mores with Papa, Nana would make sure they had something healthy to balance it out before heading home.

She will be remembered for her quick wit, signature sarcasm, and stubborn streak, as well as her quiet selflessness - she never wanted to inconvenience anyone, even at her own expense. She took great pride in her appearance and carried herself with strength and dignity throughout her life. But above all, she will be remembered for her nurturing heart, her devotion to her family, and the peace and joy she found by the ocean.

Doris is also survived by her brother, Mark A. Nunez of Bellingham, Massachusetts, as well as many loving in-laws, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends, including her best friend, Donna Magnani of Ashland, Massachusetts, all of whom will deeply miss her warmth and presence.

In addition to her mother and father, Doris was predeceased by her youngest brother, Ronald J. Nunez of Framingham, Massachusetts, and her sister, Clara Meredith of Elgin, Illinois.

Her family finds comfort in the memories they shared and the lasting impact she had on their lives. Doris's legacy of love, strength, and devotion will live on in all who knew her.

In honoring Doris' wishes, a graveside service will be held at the Wildwood Cemetery, 76 Chestnut Street, Ashland, MA on Monday, May 4, 2026, at noon, followed by a Celebration of Life at La Cantina Restaurant, 911 Waverly Street, Framingham, MA. Family and friends are warmly invited to join in honoring and remembering her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Doris's memory to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the MetroWest Humane Society in Ashland, Massachusetts.