Doris Jean (Mullinix) Vargo, formerly of Harrisburg

Doris Jean (Mullinix) Vargo, 92, of Gulfport, Mississippi and formerly of Harrisburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 7 p.m. on Feb. 27, 2022 at the University of South Alabama Health Hospital in Mobile, Alabama. The cause of death was a stroke.

Doris was born on Aug. 17, 1929 in Harrisburg, Illinois to Leslie (Bud) and Pearl Mullinix. On April 15, 1949, she married Robert (Bob) Vargo.

While Doris was living in Illinois, she was a dedicated member of the McKinley Avenue Baptist Church. Since the 1980s, she had been an active member of the Bel Aire Baptist Church in Gulfport.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, as well as a brother, Jack Mullinix, and a sister, Judith Smith. In addition, her husband Bob preceded her in death.

Survivors include two sons, Mike Vargo and his wife Robbie, and Marc Vargo and his partner Michael Walker. Other survivors include her grandsons Eric and Adam Vargo; her great-granddaughter Addison (Addie Mae) Vargo; and nieces and nephews, Gloria Willoughby (and Beverly Rogers); Tim (Kay) Smith; and David (Janet) Smith and their families. Lastly, she leaves behind her beloved dog and constant companion, Rosie.

With a zest for living, a sharp sense of humor, and a smile for everyone, Doris radiated sunshine. A Christian woman with a heart of gold, she embraced and celebrated life. She was also strong, independent and resilient, and she lived according to her own convictions.

Among her hobbies were interior decorating, shopping, traveling and caring for animals from turtles to dogs. She loved music, and was a highly accomplished pianist. A remarkable, one-of-a-kind woman, it is an understatement to say that she will be missed.

The family is honoring Doris' longtime wish that she be cremated and that there be no formal services. Reimann Family Funeral Home in Gulfport, Mississippi, is handling the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) or to "Never Lose Sight," an agency providing services to the visually impaired in Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi.