By Bill W. Cooper
Report coming in says former First Lady, Nancy B. Doe, has died, multiple sources confirmed her passing on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in Liberia.
However, the exact date, cause, and location of her death are yet to be officially disclosed by family members or the government.
However, family members and close associates have yet to issue a formal statement, but tributes have already begun to pour in from across Liberia, highlighting her role in the country’s history and her resilience in the face of national tragedy.
Mrs. Doe served as Liberia’s First Lady from 1980 to 1990 during the presidency of her husband, Samuel K. Doe, who seized power in a military coup, and throughout her tenure, she was known for her involvement in charitable activities and advocacy for women, men and children’s welfare.
She also established several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of women and children in Liberia, advocating for better access to education and medical services, as her commitment to social causes earned her respect and admiration from many Liberians, who viewed her as a compassionate leader dedicated to the welfare of her people.
Her Nancy Doe’s life was not without controversy because the Doe regime was marked by allegations of human rights abuses and corruption, and the country eventually descended into civil war in the late 1980s.
But despite the challenges of her husband’s presidency, Nancy remained a steadfast supporter of his administration and played a role in various state functions. Following the assassination) of Doe during the First Liberian Civil War, she then went into exile.
Nancy Doe went into exile, living in the United States for many years, and she later returned to Liberia in the early 2000s, where she continued her philanthropic work and remained active in the community, as well as initiatives aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation.
Meanwhile, the news of her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum in Liberia, with some Liberians lamenting, “Nancy B. Doe was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to the service of her country.”
According to them, the country’s former first lady’s contributions to Liberia will always be remembered, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations in years to come, describing her as a loving mother, grandmother, and friend who dedicated her life to serving others.
They added, “She was a beacon of hope for many, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Her unwavering spirit and commitment to the betterment of Liberia will never be forgotten.”
