Belva Dean Doby affectionately called "Bel'' was born in Taylorsville, MS to Irdean Thompson-Smith and Lemous Verston (L.V.) Thompson Sr. on March 3, 1958.  Baptized at an early age, Belva was a devout woman of faith committed to leading and serving others.  She was a member of Tabernacle of Faith Ministries where she served as an Elder (Minister), Lead Usher, President of Pastor's Aide, Event Coordinator and in other capacities to help the growth of the vision of The Tabernacle of Faith Ministries. She was the founder of Iron Sharpens Iron.  Iron Sharpens Iron is a ministry to assist women of all ages to reach their potential and pursue their passions.   Belva was passionate about family, education, and social awareness. She sought to live a life of and on purpose, pursuing excellence in all her endeavors.  Upon her post-secondary education, Belva always had an entrepreneurial spirit with her greatest success coming from her business as a BeautiControl Senior Consultant. Prior to the full launch of her business, she worked 25 years as a Unit Secretary (Information Associate) at Memorial Hospital.

It was during her time at Memorial Hospital that she met and married Craig Doby.  Their union led to a beautiful, blended family in which they coparented 5 wonderful children-LaToya Thompson, Eric Walker, Portia Hall, Carlos Walker-Hall, and Richard Doby.  As a wife, mother, career woman, and entrepreneur, Belva had a unique way of balancing the demands of life and her desires to create a fruitful existence for herself and others.  With an enviable zest for life, Belva found and created beauty for so many to enjoy.  That is why her name is so fitting for its Latin origin meaning "beautiful view".

When reflecting upon Belva's life, we honor the beautiful views she painted and left in our hearts.  Her smile and strength were rivaled only by her tenacity to face trials and tribulations.  Fueled by faith and a fiery spirit, Belva definitely made her mark in this world and left us with so many cherished memories.

Surrounded by the love of family and friends, Belva Dean Doby was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on March 18, 2021. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Craig Doby; her amazing sons, Carlos Walker-Hall and Richard "Poppy '' Doby; her dear parents, L.V. Thompson Sr., Irdean Thompson-Smith, and stepfather Charles S. Smith.  She leaves to cherish her memory her children LaToya Thompson, Eric Walker, Portia Hall; grandchildren Jaccheaus, JaNiyiah, Erayona, Naja, Jayceon, Kaylinn, Malakai; 4 great grandchildren, Jaiden, Kaisen, Jaice, Jamari.  Three brothers; Bishop Anthony (Lori) Thompson, Leonard Ray "Stan" (Flory) Thompson, Lemous Thompson Jr. and three sisters; Cynthia Dedeaux, Jacqueline Thomspon, Angelus (George) Rouse.  A host of nephews, nieces, other family members and friends. A special companion Mr. Terry Owens.

On behalf of the family, virtual attendance will be made available. Please follow Zoom link below:

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