Doreen Rawlingson Devore

Doreen Rawlingson Devore, 93, of Concord, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Morningside Assisted Living in Concord.

A memorial service celebrating Doreen's life is planned for Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., in the chapel of the Fellowship House at First Presbyterian Church in Concord, with Rev. Bryan Hoovey officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

Doreen was born on January 19, 1933, in London, England, to the late Sarah Byron Rawlingson and Frederick Rawlingson. An only child, she grew up in London before meeting the love of her life, Carlton M. Devore, while he was serving in the United States Air Force in England. The couple married in London in 1954, beginning a life together that would eventually bring Doreen across the Atlantic to America.

Moving from the bustling streets of London to a small South Carolina town was quite an adjustment. Accustomed to public transportation and city life, Doreen quickly discovered that life in the American South was very different from what she had known. Her family fondly remembers the amusing stories of those early days and the experiences that came with making a new home in a different country. Although she made her life in the United States, Doreen was especially proud of her English heritage and of remaining a British citizen throughout her entire life.

Doreen spent approximately 25 years working as an executive secretary at Piedmont Mental Health Center, where she developed many lasting friendships. One of the most meaningful parts of her life was her dedication to Al-Anon, an organization in which she remained actively involved for many years. Her commitment extended well beyond her local community, taking her on international travels, including trips to Japan and other parts of Asia, through her involvement with the organization. Doreen took tremendous pride in her work with Al-Anon and the opportunity to connect with and support others around the world.

A longtime member of First Presbyterian Church in Concord since 1974, Doreen valued her church family and the relationships she formed over the years.

Doreen had a special affection for animals and particularly enjoyed the companionship of her beloved cat. She also loved the fall season, with its beautiful changing colors, and burgundy was her favorite color. These simple pleasures were among the many things that made Doreen who she was.

Above all, Doreen cherished her family and took great pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Doreen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carlton M. Devore.

She is survived by her two daughters, Teresa Padgett and husband, Scott, of Concord, and Sheree Houston and husband, Joe, of Kure Beach; two grandsons, Joel Padgett and Blake Rawlingson Houston and wife, Brittney; and four great-grandchildren, Jonas Padgett, Jake Padgett, Jace Padgett, and Beckham Rawlingson Houston.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the wonderful staff at Morningside Assisted Living, where Doreen resided for more than five years, and to the compassionate caregivers of Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County for the kindness, comfort, and care they provided.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County, 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081.

Wilkinson Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.