FAIRHOPE, Ala. — Fairhope resident and local philanthropist Doris Chennell died this weekend at a local assisted living facility.

A native of Iowa, Chennell moved to Fairhope in 1977 and was instrumental in the building and furnishing of the James P. Nix Center. She contributed more than $250,000 worth of furnishings. Chennell also helped to decorate the Nix Center and custom- designed some of its furnishings. An avid bridge player, the Nix Center card room was named in honor of her when the building opened in 1998.

“Ms. Chennell was a very special and unique person, she was a great friend to me and a great asset to our community and the Nix Center, and we will miss her,” said Sherry Sullivan, city of Fairhope director of senior services.

Chennell is survived by one nephew and his family from Iowa. A memorial service will be held for Chennell at the Nix Center Doris Chennell Room Wednesday, June 11, at 11 a.m.

Chennell had a passion for animals and reading so in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to The Haven or to the Fairhope Public Library. Donations to the Haven may be mailed to: 559 S. Section St., Fairhope, AL 36532 or online at: www.haven4animals@yahoo.com.

Donations to the Fairhope Public Library may be mailed to: 501 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL 36532.