Doris Jean (Rayhill) Bean

Doris Jean Bean (Rayhill) of Terre Haute, Indiana, passed away peacefully at Union Hospital on Saturday, September 13, 2025, just a few weeks shy of her 88th birthday.

Doris was born on October 13, 1937, in Pana, Illinois, to James A. Rayhill and Evelyn Rayhill (DuChaney). She graduated from Pana High School, and, on January 2, 1960, she married Edwin L. Bean of Jewett, IL. Together, they shared 65 devoted years of marriage, raising a large, loving family.

Doris is survived by her husband Edwin and their seven children: Anita Bean (Robin), Annette Jenkins (Fred), Ed “Butch” Bean (Stephanie), Eric Bean (Betsy), Bruce Bean (Tona), Angela Herman (Gary), and Amy Martin (Tim). Her legacy continues through 16 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored with all her heart.

Known affectionately as “Sis” by her nine siblings, Doris is survived by brothers David Rayhill (Carol) of Decatur, IL, Steve Rayhill (Susan) of Mt. Zion, IL and James Rayhill (Helena) of Satellite Beach, FL. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Donald Rayhill, Joe Rayhill, Joanne Morrison, Mike Rayhill, and Nancy Hilton, as well as her beloved grandson, Joshua L. Bean.

In her younger years, Doris worked alongside her father and siblings at the Breakstone Sugar Creek Creamery in Pana. But her most cherished roles were those of Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma, and “Mrs. Bean” to many neighbors and friends. As the proud Matriarch of the family, Doris always had a gentle wise word, a listening ear, and a warm hug ready for anyone who needed it.

She was known for her gifted green thumb, her delicious home-cooked meals, and the specially decorated birthday cakes she made for each family member. Doris lovingly handmade Halloween costumes and decorations over the years, and was especially notorious for her famous popcorn balls, a cherished treat among neighborhood trick-or-treaters for generations. A talented painter and master gardener, she poured her heart into her home and family. Holidays and birthdays were sacred to her — her heart was full when everyone was “home.” Doris never stopped keeping tabs on her family, always making sure everyone was safe, healthy, and cared for. Her love, strength, and traditions have built a legacy that will continue to inspire generations. One of God’s miracles, and she has been called home.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 17th, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at DeBaun Springhill Chapel in Terre Haute. Funeral services will be on Thursday, September 18th, at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Mark Grayless officiating. An additional visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in North Terre Haute.

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