Doris Ann Marie Nowak Stilwell, 86, of Versailles, passed away peacefully on Oct. 4, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family.
She was born on April 6, 1940, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Irma Schuh and George Nowak.
Doris began her career by joining the Peace Corps in the early 1960s, where she lived and worked in Barrio Belén in Colombia. Her time there began a lifetime of curiosity, service, adventure and appreciation for other cultures. She later moved to San Diego, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work and met the love of her life, her Billy.
Doris and William “Bill” Stilwell were married in 1969 and soon moved to Lexington, Kentucky, where Dr. William Stilwell began his long and distinguished career at the University of Kentucky. Doris loved to learn, and in 1991 she earned her Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky. From then on, there were two Dr. Stilwells in the world.
She loved to travel and experience new places. She visited almost every state in the United States and enjoyed many adventures throughout the world. She loved learning, traveling, gardening and spending time with family and friends. She was a woman of many interests and adventures who enjoyed sharing her experiences with others. She was a lifelong proponent of sharing and giving experiences, not just gifts. Her curiosity, generosity and love of life touched the many people fortunate enough to know her.
Doris is survived by her daughter, Belen Angel; grandchildren, Brooke Stilwell, Earle Stilwell, William Angel and Claire Angel; and great-granddaughter, Loreali Angel.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Stilwell; her parents, Irma Schuh and George Nowak; and her son, William Stilwell.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 3 p.m. on Oct. 23, at St. Leo Catholic Church in Versailles, with Rev. Chris Clay officiating. Burial will take place at Spring Grove Cemetery in Cincinnati, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to organizations that were meaningful to Doris and her family, including the Doris Nowak & William E. Stilwell III Graduate Fellowship and the Woodford Youth Soccer Association.
Care Cremation and Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with final care.