Doris Ruth (Leiphart) Elfner, 94, of Red Lion, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2026, with her loving children by her side. She was the devoted wife of the late Dale E. Elfner. Together, Doris and Dale, affectionately known as “the two D’s,” shared 39 wonderful years of marriage until his passing on December 18, 2017.

Born in East Prospect on September 17, 1931, Doris was the daughter of the late Paul and Ruth S. (Ferree) Leiphart.

A 1950 graduate of York High School, Doris often joked that she chose York High over Red Lion because “that’s where the city boys were.” Following high school, she attended Waters Academy of Modeling, graduating in 1952. Her grace and charm led to several modeling opportunities, including appearances in the Hat Parade at the Preakness Stakes, serving as Beauty Salon Week Queen in York, and modeling for Jack’s of York and the United Nations Food Show in Baltimore.

Doris worked at Jack’s in York and later at the Kay Rene Dress Shop in Red Lion. Above all else, she cherished her role as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She devoted her life to caring for and supporting her family, always making time for her children and grandchildren. Her love and dedication never faded, as she was even caring for a great-granddaughter just two weeks before her passing.

Doris also treasured the many happy memories she shared with Dale in Ocean City, Maryland, a place that brought them both great happiness throughout the years.

Doris is survived by her children, Kimberly Kopp and husband Steve, William Ritz and wife Sue, and Rhonda Ritz and wife Maureen Hogan. She also leaves her stepson Wade Elfner and wife Terri. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Angel Michael and husband Scott, Scott Kopp and wife Kelli, Joshua Ritz and wife Brooke, Nate Elfner and wife Katharine, Nicole Elfner, and Paul Elfner. She preceded in death by her brother, Dale Leiphart. Known affectionately as “Nanny Doris,” she was also blessed with six great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.

A viewing for Doris will take place on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Wagner-Elfner and Burg Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 3070 Cape Horn Road, Red Lion, beginning at 10:00 am. A funeral service officiated by Pastor Don Rowe of Bethany United Methodist Church will follow at 11:00 am. Burial will be private in Red Lion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Doris’s memory to Bethany United Methodist Church, 121 W. Broadway, Red Lion, PA 17356.