Doris Day, the celebrated star of Hollywood’s Golden Age, left an indelible mark on both the film and music industries. Passing away in 2019 at the age of 97, her legacy continues to inspire even years after her departure.
With over 650 songs and more than 30 films to her name, Doris was a beloved figure, admired not only for her talents but also for her infectious warmth and sincerity. Her prominent roles in films like “Pillow Talk,” “Love Me or Leave Me,” and “The Man Who Knew Too Much” remain iconic.

A modest soul with a deep love for animals, Doris Day was married four times and had a son, Terry Melcher, from her marriage to Al Jorden. Tragically, Terry passed away in 2004 after battling cancer.
Among her greatest musical hits were “Sentimental Journey,” “Secret Love,” and the timeless “Que Sera Sera,” all of which earned places in the Grammy Hall of Fame. Her commitment to animals led her to establish the Doris Day Animal Foundation, a testament to her passion for animal welfare.
Her passing was solemnly announced by the foundation, stating that she had succumbed to pneumonia. In line with her wishes, there were no formal burial ceremonies or public memorials arranged.

Doris Day’s Simple Request
Bob Bashara, who was not only Day’s manager but also a dear friend, shared that Doris consistently avoided conversations about funerals and had a profound fear of death.
“She simply couldn’t bear the thought of death,” Bashara explained in an interview, unveiling that she refused to stay with her pets during their final moments. This was reflective of her discomfort with the inevitability of death.
Bashara recounted Day’s instructions: “I’d mention the need to arrange care for her beloved dogs, and she’d quickly change the subject with ‘I don’t want to think about it,’ shifting responsibility to others with ‘Well, you just take care of them.’ She couldn’t even discuss the potential of them passing away.”

Throughout her life, Doris was a staunch advocate for animal rights, successfully raising an impressive $3 million by auctioning over 1,000 personal items. Moreover, she co-founded a Texas Horse Rescue and Adoption Center, aimed at safeguarding the welfare of neglected horses.
Initially raised in the Catholic faith, Doris later embraced Christian Science during her marriage to producer Martin Melcher, who also adopted her son Terry, taking on the Melcher name. However, post-Martin’s demise, Doris gradually stepped away from organized religion, maintaining her spirituality.

Bashara reflected fondly, “She always felt grateful for her talents, often saying, ‘God gave me a voice, and I simply used it.’” He emphasized her unwavering faith as a driving force behind her success.
After a successful career in the movies, Doris retired in the 70s, only making brief comebacks for television. Notably, she hosted “Doris Day’s Best Friends,” a warm and engaging talk show on the Christian Broadcasting Network.

Ultimately, all of Doris Day’s estate was generously donated to charitable causes, a final gesture that aligns with the selfless spirit she maintained throughout her life.