Doris Yates-Lightfoot
Waterford — A light of passion for family and her beloved Caribbean heritage has gone out. Doris Ursule (Hodge) Yates-Lightfoot made her transition Monday, April 29, 2024, after a 12-year struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia that claimed the last part of her 88 years with us and robbed those who loved her. She immigrated to the USA in 1955, via Ellis Island in New York, and would later assist other family members on this same journey.
She retired after a 30-year career with Connecticut Department of Mental Retardation (DMR) at Seaside Regional Center and Seaview Housing Center, becoming dear friends with staff and patients. She also supported the Foreign Exchange Student program, and the Sunshine Club — welcoming many into her home, and endearing them to her over the years. Her last job was as a transportation assistant for students with special needs.
As for family reunions, she diligently hosted many celebrations in her home, pool parties, Caribbean dances with live music, fundraisers and anything connected to her beloved Caribbean heritage. Her gatherings will be fondly remembered by all those who attended. She was one of the founding members of the Caribbean Cultural Organization located in New London, that hosted many popular Caribbean Festivals at Ocean Beach Park, Downtown New London, and Centro De La Communidad for many years.
Doris was born Dec. 16, 1935, on the Island of Saint Martin, FWI (Grand Case) to Thomas and Alphonsine (Gumbs) Hodge. She was predeceased by her parents, sisters, Iris Richardson, Dorothy Hubert, Bernice Bertin-Maurice, Gail Leverett, and Fidelis Hodge; and husband Ronald Yates; and former husband Russell Lightfoot. She is survived by her brother Prosper Hodge of St. Martin FWI; brother-in-law Earl Leverett of Waterford; and five children; Douglas (Fusae) Yates, Diane Cain, Debbie Phillips, Dawn Yates and Jeremy (Brandi) Lightfoot.
She also leaves behind nine grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; one great-greatgrandson; many nieces and nephews, and amazing family and friends.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to
New London Rehabilitation & Care for their professional and tireless care for the past 11 years. Per Doris’s request, there will be no calling hours. A Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 8, at St. Joseph Church located at 149 Montauk Avenue in New London. Interment is private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to either the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, or to St. Joseph Church, 149 Montauk Avenue, New London, CT 06320. The Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Avenue, New London, is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.neilanfuneralhome.com.