ForeverMissed
Large image
We've created this memorial website to celebrate the life of Doris Fong Chang. We invite you to share stories and memories here for us to cherish, together.

The family wishes to acknowledge with sincere gratitude and appreciation the many expressions of love, kindness and sympathy shown during this time. Thank you to everyone who attended the Celebration of Life service and who also took time to drive by and see us. It was a very special day and we felt Doris there with us.

With Gratitude,
The Chang Family
July 27, 2020
July 27, 2020
I met Doris during the last few years of her life at Somerford Place. She seemed very sweet and kind. I can see from the family and friends tributes that she was always  so. I was very touched by the loving care Freeman showed with her as well as that shown by her siblings, children, and friends.

A donation has been made in her memory to the Alzheimer’s Association through the WALK to End Alzheimer’s.
July 26, 2020
July 26, 2020
The Celebration of Life for Doris Fong Chang yesterday was so beautifully warm, exuded so much of love for her and put a stamp on the impact she’s had on so many lives. At program’s end, Matthew encouraged us all to have lunch together in remembrance of Doris, which is what my husband, Danny, and I decided we’d do afterwards, to continue the talk of good memories we have of “Auntie Doris.” We both agreed her smile and laughter brought light and life into every room that contained her. She embodied so much goodness... through kindness, generosity, and caring for all those she knew, met, or wanted to help. When Auntie Doris’ name is mentioned, Danny and my thoughts always turn to how much time and energy she voluntarily put into creating the perfectly matched and custom designed floral arrangements, corsages, and boutonnières for our wedding. My favorite handmade red roses hair clip she made for my tea ceremony greets me daily as it’s a wedding pic that sits at the top of our staircase. Auntie Doris was an influencer, long before it became a thing! I realized only yesterday that I try to be as creative as she always was. She started it all for me... from the unique gift tags, to eye captivating bows, it’s because of her zest to make everything special, that I found that passion too. It has brought me immense joy throughout the years, and I have seen what sharing that joy has brought to others in my life. Auntie Doris has certainly left our world better by being in it. She has left us so many fond memories to keep her close in our hearts. My favorite one : “Not of my flesh, but all of my heart.” Doris Fong Chang was indeed all heart.
July 23, 2020
July 23, 2020
I met Doris when I first moved to Stockton from England. It’s very hard to move into a new town where you don’t know anyone, esp. with two very young kids. Doris was one of the first people who welcomed me with open arms, esp. when she learned that I was from Malaysia. Hence Kim figured I could have been her mom. It also helped that my son and Kim were in the same school and in the same grade. From then on, Doris included me in every activity, pot luck and luncheons, even at her church, introduced me to her family, esp. Mary Huey, who persuaded me one year to be in the fashion show at the Chinese New Year celebration at Stockton Civic Auditorium. She introduced me to bowling (which I was so sad to leave when I got a job). Doris always had a smile and an infectious laugh, and was a very nonjudgmental friend. Doris, I will forever treasure our friendship and miss your lovely smile. RIP my friend 
July 23, 2020
July 23, 2020
My name is Joselyn Davis. I would see your mom and Freeman everyday when I would visit Myrtle Neal (my dear friend that passed away on April 16th). I truly admired the love and support that a husband showed to his wife, even through the fruit (strawberries and bananas) he would bring to her everyday. :) I wish I had the chance to know Doris in her earlier years. She seemed to be a very pleasant and cheerful lady. She would smile and hold Freeman's hand. This touched my heart. May her memories forever be in your hearts and bring you joy instead of sorry. Peace to all of you! Joselyn
July 20, 2020
July 20, 2020
What a beautiful tribute this touching page is, to such a lovely lady. I will never forget making my rounds every morning and I was always greeted by a beautiful smile from Doris. Watching her face light up on Freemans daily visits was so very heartwarming. What a wonderful devoted family to a beautiful soul. Doris will be missed by all the staff at Somerford Place. It was our honor to care for her and a pleasure knowing the Chang family. Thank you for those times with your loving family. Doris would have been so proud of the beautiful loving buffet the family presented to all the staff. It was delicious and full of love and appreciation. Warmly Leslie Anderson. Executive Director of Somerford Place.
July 20, 2020
July 20, 2020
I have nothing but love for you Mama Chang.

In seventh grade I was the lonely new kid being raised by a single-nutty-professor-father. Kim brought me home one day after school in my converse, frizzy hair and coke bottle glasses. From that moment, you took me under your wing. Now I see that it was your empathetic soul, love and kindness that taught Kim to see people for their insides. Your empathy changed my life. For the first time in this new environment I felt safe, content and flourished.

From then on, whether you were supplying Kim and I with an entire bag of burgers and bottles of Crystal Geyser water— we were well taken care of— you had our back. We could be our best happiest, wildest, craziest selves… and we were! You not only doted on us, drove us all over town in the Buick with the velvety seats, laughed with us (or at me while cruising by when I got my car stuck and popped a tire on the island in the middle of March Ln.)-- but you also kept us in line. Thank you for chastising us when we were being ridiculous (which was more often that.)

Although I saw your joy and sense of humor (I can still picture you laughing with Aunty Mary and Aunty Sue in your living room), you also weren’t afraid to feel your pain. You were a vulnerable human too. If you were sad for the world you wouldn’t hide it. That I have learned, Mama Chang, is true bravery.

Thank you for all the sweet, encouraging words you've said to me, letting me have 1000 sleepovers at your place and the love you gave to me. Your mothering changed my life and now influences the lives of my wild and crazy kiddos.

Love, Nami
July 18, 2020
July 18, 2020
I will miss my daily Visits with Doris every evening. I’ll remember her warm smile.
July 16, 2020
July 16, 2020
Mrs. Chang and her family welcomed me with open arms the first time I came over to spend time with Kim! I felt like family immediately. I have countless memories of time spent with Mrs. Chang and all involved smiles and laughter! What I loved most was how much love was evident in her eyes when she looked at her daughter Kimberlee. The moments when Mrs. Chang took Kim's cheek and kissed it in her own special way and the giggles that followed are unforgettable.  I never had the opportunity to leave the house empty-handed, without some type of food in hand. Mrs. Chang made sure I took something home to share with my parents every single time. It was obvious that she loved cooking for us and providing for her family. 

I always wanted to put a smile on her face when I was in her presence and make her proud! I have so much love and respect for Mrs. Chang. I feel fortunate to have been in her company benefiting from her caring personality and now cherishing her undying spirit.  
July 15, 2020
July 15, 2020
I was only 5 when I first met Matt and mom and dad down the street. In the years that followed there are too many rides to practice, games in the driveway and on the street, dinner, sleepovers, and birthday parties to count. She was another mom directing us and feeding us and keeping us on the straight and narrow (for the most part). She was loving and quick to smile and always knew when a sideways glance was in order when we were getting into trouble. She'll be missed. Love to the family!

Leave a Tribute

Light a Candle
Lay a Flower
Leave a Note
 
Recent Tributes
July 27, 2020
July 27, 2020
I met Doris during the last few years of her life at Somerford Place. She seemed very sweet and kind. I can see from the family and friends tributes that she was always  so. I was very touched by the loving care Freeman showed with her as well as that shown by her siblings, children, and friends.

A donation has been made in her memory to the Alzheimer’s Association through the WALK to End Alzheimer’s.
July 26, 2020
July 26, 2020
The Celebration of Life for Doris Fong Chang yesterday was so beautifully warm, exuded so much of love for her and put a stamp on the impact she’s had on so many lives. At program’s end, Matthew encouraged us all to have lunch together in remembrance of Doris, which is what my husband, Danny, and I decided we’d do afterwards, to continue the talk of good memories we have of “Auntie Doris.” We both agreed her smile and laughter brought light and life into every room that contained her. She embodied so much goodness... through kindness, generosity, and caring for all those she knew, met, or wanted to help. When Auntie Doris’ name is mentioned, Danny and my thoughts always turn to how much time and energy she voluntarily put into creating the perfectly matched and custom designed floral arrangements, corsages, and boutonnières for our wedding. My favorite handmade red roses hair clip she made for my tea ceremony greets me daily as it’s a wedding pic that sits at the top of our staircase. Auntie Doris was an influencer, long before it became a thing! I realized only yesterday that I try to be as creative as she always was. She started it all for me... from the unique gift tags, to eye captivating bows, it’s because of her zest to make everything special, that I found that passion too. It has brought me immense joy throughout the years, and I have seen what sharing that joy has brought to others in my life. Auntie Doris has certainly left our world better by being in it. She has left us so many fond memories to keep her close in our hearts. My favorite one : “Not of my flesh, but all of my heart.” Doris Fong Chang was indeed all heart.
Her Life

Saying Goodbye

July 26, 2020
On Saturday July 25th we held a service to celebrate the life of Doris. Many of her family and friends gathered virtually to pay respects and share stories and memories of her wonderful life, love and friendship.

Later in the evening we were visited by so many family and friends from near and far that drove by to see us for a socially distant reception line. It was apparent how many lives she really touched by the showing of family, friends, neighbors and friends of her children. We felt incredibly blessed and full of gratitude, but mostly felt Doris smiling down on all of us. 

We ended the evening lighting sparklers in honor of Doris. We know that she will continue to shine bright in heaven looking upon us, always. 

Obituary

July 13, 2020
Doris Chang passed away peacefully at Somerford Place, on July 9th, 2020, at the age of 77. Doris was the 11th child of 12, born November 29, 1942, to Men Coon Fong and Yek Yip Fong, in Sacramento, CA. Doris grew up and went to school in Sacramento, CA before marrying Freeman Chang and settling down in Stockton, CA. She worked as a hairdresser before deciding to stay at home to raise her children, Matthew and Kimberlee. Once they were in college and high school, Doris worked as a preschool teacher’s aide, retiring from Brookside Elementary in 2003 after 5 years of service.  She was an active member of the Chinese Christian Mission and later First Baptist Church. She enjoyed cooking, crafts, bowling, traveling and gatherings with family and friends. Doris is survived by her husband Freeman of 52 years, sister Mary Huey (Hong Huey), brother Ernest Fong (Jean Fong), son Matthew Chang (Sara O’Mohundro), daughter Kimberlee Chang Mendes (Mark Mendes), granddaughter Kyla Mendes, grandson Xavery Mendes and goddaughter Briana SooHoo. She was preceded in death by her parents Wilbur and Alice Fong, siblings Chee Soong Fong, George Fong, Franklin Fong, Adam Fong, Evelyn Fong, Edwin Fong, Lillie SooHoo, and Jane Wong.

Doris' English Tea

July 16, 2020
In honor of Doris, we hosted a special luncheon at Somerford Place, to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the wonderful care they provided to her in the last years of her life. Doris had a passion and a gift for bringing people together over great food and fellowship. She loved to cook and bake and would put care into every detail from the menu to the presentation. With the help of her daughter n' law, Sara, goddaughter Briana, niece Sherry, granddaughter Kyla and daughter Kimberlee, we put on a luncheon that would make her proud. Thank you to all of the caregivers at Somerford. It is a very difficult, but incredibly important job and we very much appreciate you!
Recent stories

My Dear Sister, Doris

July 24, 2020
Dear Doris:

Thank you so much for being my little sister. Although you were raised in Sacramento and I in Los Angeles we were blessed to remain as a family through the love and care of Jane, Mary, David, Hong, Lillie, Allen and Grandma Soo Hoo.I would see you during your summer visits to Los Angeles when Allen and Lillie would keep us entertained.It wasn’t until later that we grew closer and the first time you met Jean was on a double date with you and my friend Joe.How time flies.Jean and I married and then we received a surprise and happy announcement from Las Vegas of your marriage to Freeman.We were so proud.Then along came the kids and its party time at the Soo Hoo’s and Huey’s.What fun.

We always enjoyed our travels with you and Freeman and your hospitality every time we visited Stockton; especially our card games.We cherish every moment and every memory of the good times we had and, sometimes sad ones too.We know the last few years have been difficult for you, but the last time in February 2020, you had a beautiful smile on your face when you recognized and pointed at me and Jean.We were happy to see you so animated.

We love you and you will always be in our memory.One day we shall meet again.This is not “good bye” but a mere pause.

With Love and Affection,
Ernie, and Jean too.

Tribute Written by Robert Wong

July 23, 2020
I have known Freeman all my life.  We were born in the same hospital, two weeks apart.  We lived in the same neighborhood, attended the same grammar school and Chinese school, played and went on trips together.  When Freeman introduced Doris to me, I knew that she was the one for him.  She had a nice smile and a very warm personality and Freeman was very happy.  Doris possessed all the good qualities in a person and she was able to instill them into their children, Matt and Kim.  She knew that they and their families will care for Freeman when she is gone.  Doris would want all of us not to be sad, but to be happy, especially her family.  Doris had a good life.  All of us greatly miss Doris, but she will always be present in our memories.  Doris is at peace.

Robert Wong



Memories of Auntie Doris

July 22, 2020
As a young child growing up, I remember Auntie Doris as a classy lady, a true lady of grace.  She was always very patient, kind, loving and soft spoken to me, not to mention that she displayed characters opposite of a true “Fong”.  She was always so pleasant to be around, and I am so grateful to have had her as my aunt.

Being our family lived in Southern California, it was always a treat to spend time with Uncle Freeman and Auntie Doris when they would come to visit and stay at Uncle Allen and Auntie Lillie’s house in South Pasadena.  It seemed like the entire family was there all the time and it was one big party!  As the Soo Hoo home was quite large, group gatherings were often held as well as sleepovers.  

 I can remember a time at the South Pasadena house when Auntie Doris and Uncle Freeman came to visit, I walked into the bedroom where they were sleeping, and found your Uncle Matt, a toddler then, consuming a 1 lb. box of See’s candy.  OMG, you should have seen the look on Auntie Doris’s face when her and Uncle Freeman woke up.  She was so mad!  Matt’s face, hands, clothes were covered in chocolate!  If I can remember, I think that was the first time I saw her angry.  It’s funny how certain memories stick with you.

It was nice back then because it seemed like everything we did as a family. The family was so close that all of our aunts, uncles and cousins spent a lot of time together attending events, family gatherings, going on trips, and most of all playing cards.  Those were truly special times!

Another memorable event as a child was our trip with the family to Incline Village, Lake Tahoe.  There were a group of us, aunts, uncles and cousins who rented a very large house and we were all under one roof!  We, as kids had the time of our lives!  It was on this trip that I can remember cousin Trisha and I taking cousin Matt into the dark stairwell on the bottom floor that lead to Uncle Freeman and Auntie Doris’s room, telling him ghost stories, spooking him and making him cry.  He had to have only been around 3 or 4 years old then, and Trisha and I in elementary school. Auntie Doris caught us in the act, and we didn’t hear the end of it!  She was so angry at us, but we had fun doing it anyway! 

From my two weddings, to countless family gatherings, Auntie Doris had always been present in my life.  Even when her illness took over and she no longer recognized me, I could still see a glimmer of the Auntie Doris I knew.

It’s memories like these of spending time with Auntie Doris I hold close to my heart and will never forget.  She was a truly a special aunt to me and she will always be loved, remembered, and deeply missed.

Love,
Tina

Invite others to Doris' website:

Invite by email

Post to your timeline