Doris Sery of Haddonfield, passed away on Jan. 13 at the age of 89.
She was born in Englewood, N.J. to the late Henry Dragner and Jean (Smith). For over 40 years, Doris, along with her late husband, Ted, served their local community by founding numerous educational programs to benefit those with developmental disabilities, including a parent support group, an art school, a daily enrichment program, and a theatrical club. The organizations they founded were, HOMH – Hometown Opportunities for the Mentally Handicapped, The Possibility Players – Theater Group for Developmentally Disabled Adults, Pegasus Program – Art Program for Developmentally Disabled Adults and The Sparrow Program – Day Program for Developmentally Disabled Adults.
The pair were active advocates for helping those with disabilities realize their creative potential while gaining acceptance within their communities.
Wife of the late Theodore W. Sery, Ph.D., she is survived by her children, Paul G. Sery and his wife Lidia Sery of Albuquerque, N.M., James Sery and wife Nancy Sery of Clarksboro, N.J., Elizabeth A. Tuleja and Katherine Sery, both of Haddon Township, NJ and two grandchildren, Abigail and Alec.
Doris was also predeceased by her sister, Jean L. Dragner. Relatives and friends were invited to attend a graveside service at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 22 at Haddonfield Methodist Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations could be sent to: The Sparrow Program, P.O. Box 36, Mt. Ephraim, N.J. 08059 (For further info, call Ms. Judy Coble, director, at (856) 685-8752). Memories and condolences can be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com.
