Doris Bridges Draper

Doris Hill Bridges Draper, 89, of Bassett, Virginia passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2024. She born in Pittsylvania County, Virginia to Robert William Bridges and Anna Maude Dodson Bridges. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 60 years, James Earl Draper, Sr.; brother, Dean Franklin Bridges; aunt, Selma Craft; two brothers-in-law, Shorty Draper (Christine) and Dewey Draper; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ernest and Mattie Draper. She is survived by one daughter, Frances D. Stegall and husband, Jeff of Collinsville, two sons, James E. “Pete” Draper, Jr. and wife, Kathy of Collinsville and Brad Draper and partner, Mark Witt of Bassett; one grandson, Lucas W. Draper and wife Taylor of Bassett; great-granddaughter, Laurel Mae Draper; special nieces, Monica Bridges Ryan and Anita Bridges Cosner; and her special friend, Karen Doss. Doris was a 1954 graduate of Martinsville High School and a very active member of First Baptist Church of Collinsville. She loved her family and church family. For nearly 60 years, she was the owner and operator of Draper Flowers & Gifts. During her long career, she was recognized and honored as being the first female accepted into the American Institute of Floral Designers in the State of Virginia. She also was a member of the floral design team for the Presidential Inaugurations for multiple U.S. Presidents. Doris served as President of the Mid-Atlantic Florist Association and was an award winner at multiple floral design shows throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Additionally, Doris was a very accomplished colored pencil artist and was a member of several local artist organizations. The family will receive friends Wednesday, July 31, 2024 from 6:00 PM until 8:30 PM at First Baptist Church of Collinsville. The family will also receive friends at the home of Lucas and Taylor Draper located at 445 Reed Creek Drive, Bassett, Va. The Funeral Service will held Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church of Collinsville with Reverend Dr. Larry Cheek. Interment will follow in Henry Memorial Park, Bassett, Virginia. Arrangements are by Collins Funeral Home, Bassett, VA. To express condolences online, please visit www.collinsmckeestonebassett.com.