Doris Nebinger, age 71, of Oskaloosa, Iowa, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Crystal Heights Care Center in Oskaloosa. She was born on May 31, 1954, in Iowa City, Iowa, the daughter of David and Emma (Rice) Wells.
Doris was united in marriage to Terry Rees, and together they welcomed two daughters. They later divorced, and Doris then married Bruce Nebinger in Moline, Illinois. Together, they welcomed a daughter and a son. Bruce preceded her in death on March 22, 2010.
Following high school, Doris worked a variety of jobs, including at Maid-Rite and at St. Luke’s in Davenport, Iowa. One of her favorite roles was serving as an LPN at a nursing home in Marshalltown, where her compassion, humor, and gentle care brought comfort and joy to the elderly residents she loved so dearly.
The calling Doris cherished most was being a mother and homemaker. Despite difficult circumstances and many challenges through the years, her love, resilience and determination never wavered. She worked tirelessly ensuring the care of her children. No matter where life took them, Doris did her best to provide comfort and care, and her children will always remember the love she showed.
Through the years, Doris enjoyed reading, coloring, and watching her soap operas. She loved crafting with her daughters, and she was a phenomenal baker, often preparing boxes of homemade sweets to share with family and friends during the holidays. Those who knew Doris will remember her spirited personality, stubborn determination, and ability to win nearly any argument. Doris was known for her sass, stubborn streak, and ability to hold her own in any conversation, but beneath her tough exterior was a deeply loving mother and grandmother who fiercely cared for her family and wanted to celebrate the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren. Time spent visiting with family and friends brought her immense joy.
Left to cherish her memory are her children; Misty (Robert) White of Cypress, TX, Tonya (Matt) Muir of Oskaloosa, and Jason Nebinger of Illinois. She is also survived by her five grandchildren; Madison, Olivia, and Mason of Oskaloosa, IA and Logan and Brooke of Cypress, TX.
She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Star Marie; her parents and step-parents, David Wells, Margaret (Wells) Lovejoy, Emma Woods, and George Woods; her sister, Luella Sarazin; and her brother, Harold Wells.
In accordance with her wishes, cremation will take place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
