Dorinda Mae Shatwell, lovingly known to countless friends and family as “Momma Doe,” entered this world on May 22, 1962, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the cherished daughter of Junior Lee Smith and Jennie Lou (Lay) Smith.In her sixty-third year of life, on November 21, 2025, she peacefully stepped into eternity to be with Jesus and her beloved Papa.
In 1979, “Doe” married her lifelong love, R. David Shatwell. For forty-five beautiful years, they walked hand in hand through faithful marriage and ministry. Their union was a radiant testimony of love, purpose, and unwavering devotion to the work of God. Side by side, they labored with compassion and conviction to reach souls and serve the Kingdom. Together, they were blessed with one son, Jonathan, who remained their greatest joy and pride.
Affectionately known as Momma Doe, Dorinda embraced people everywhere as her own—within her local church and around the world. She loved deeply, gave generously, and always found a way to make others feel valued and seen. She carried a special tenderness for the downtrodden and the overlooked, and no one ever left her presence without feeling better about themselves. Yet, none held a more special place in her heart than the children and young people of her church, whom she lovingly called her kids.
Momma Doe exemplified the essence of a true Christian. Passionate about her faith and always eager to talk about Jesus, she inspired many through her teaching ministries—especially “Mirror Time” and “Moments with Momma Doe.” A mighty prayer warrior, she was known to touch Heaven with her petitions, and all who knew her believed that Heaven listened when she prayed. Truly, she was a Proverbs 31 woman—an extraordinary wife, mother, daughter, sister, pastor’s wife, and friend.
Momma Doe lived with excellence in everything she did. Whether in ministry, homemaking, or hospitality, she gave her all. Tireless and diligent, she could outwork just about anyone. Her home, garden, and flower beds reflected both her creativity and care. She was the consummate hostess—welcoming guests with warmth, laughter, and food that was second to none. Her homemade treats were legendary: caramel, toffee, snack mix, puppy chow, and loaded brownies—made with love and shared with joy.
She also loved to laugh and enjoy life. She delighted in hearing blonde jokes (even when she didn’t quite get them all), spent hours playing games around her dining table—always preferring that someone else win—and never passed up anything labeled “New” at the grocery store.And when it came to Christmas—no one did it like Momma Doe. Her home glowed with beauty, joy, and wonder, as if the season itself belonged to her.
Her creative touch was known far beyond her own home. With a unique blend of rustic charm and elegant flair, she used her decorating talents to bless many, designing platforms for the Oklahoma District Camp Meeting and crafting beautiful photo backdrops for the Oklahoma District Ladies Conference. In her beloved hometown of Okemah, she devoted years to the beautification of Main Street, serving alongside Connie Riley with Main Street Inc. Her handiwork adorned the large planters downtown, which she faithfully decorated season after season.
Momma Doe leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. She is survived by her son, Jonathan Shatwell and his wife Mikail of Columbus, Ohio; her mother, Jennie Lou Smith of Berryhill, Oklahoma; her sister, Vickie Marks and husband Don of Nashoba, Oklahoma; nephews Cody Marks and wife Amanda, Casey Marks and wife Marlana, Jason Marks and wife Sarah, and Jared Marks and wife Audrey; as well as fourteen great-nieces and great-nephews who adored her.She was preceded in death by her father, Junior Lee Smith, and her beloved husband, Bishop R. David Shatwell.
Visitation for Momma Doe will be held Sunday, 11/23/2025 from 5:30PM - 7:30PM at The Refuge - Okemah United Pentecostal Church in Okemah, OK.
Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 PM, Monday, 11/24/2025 at The Refuge Church in Okemah, OK.
Address: 104 E Broadway Okemah, OK 74859
The Refuge - Okemah United Pentecostal Church
The Refuge Church
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