Barbourville, Ky. – Mrs. Vauda Smith Doolin, of Heidrick, passed away peacefully May 11, 2020. Vauda was lovingly born to Ples H. Hickey and Nellie Brittain Hickey on March 10, 1930 in Harlan County. Vauda spent her young life in Harlan, but she resided in Barbourville for most of her life. She was twice married. In 1949, Vauda united in marriage with James Vallard Smith, and to this union two children were born: James Michael Smith and Timothy Smith. Her second marriage was to Herman Doolin in 1992.
Vauda was a person of great strength and class. She was known and loved for always maintaining a positive attitude throughout her life. She was a fabulous cook, an avid gardener and she enjoyed sewing and playing the piano as hobbies. Vauda was always neat and well-groomed. She valued good manners and found joy in teaching manners to her grandchildren – educating them about how to politely conduct themselves in society.
In addition to her parents, her sons, and her first husband, Vauda was preceded in death by two brothers: Clyde Wathal Hickey and Willis Alden Hickey. Vauda is survived by her adored husband, Herman and by two grandchildren, Amy Smith Devers (Danny) of Georgetown and by Michael Timothy Smith formerly of Barbourville, now of Richmond, by her daughter-in-law, Billie N. Smith and by two great grandchildren: Landon Scott and Laney Shae. She also will be dearly missed by Herman Doolin Jr. and his wife, Carol and Evelyn (Doolin) Roberts and her husband, Dave.
Respecting the executive orders from Governor Andy Beshear’s office regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, all services for Vauda Doolin will be private.
Vauda will be laid to rest in the Barbourville City Cemetery with the Reverend Tommy Frazier officiating. Casket bearers will be Mike T. Smith, Danny Devers, Josh Lawson, Mike Broughton, and Jake Knuckles.
If you would like to sign the guest register for Mrs. Doolin or to send a condolence to the Doolin family, please visit our guestbook on our website at www.hopperfuneralhome.com or call us at 606.546.4141 and one of our staff will sign the guest register for you. Please reach out to us at 606.546.4141, if we can further assist you with sending a message to the Doolin family.
The Hopper Family, Victoria Hopper York and Sally Hopper, and the staff of Hopper Funeral Home extend sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Vauda Doolin.
