The First Med Center Administrator

By Shannon Finley

Meet Mrs. Doris Branch – the First Med Center Administrator.

Born and educated in west Tennessee, Doris Branch began her nursing career in 1965 in Jackson, Tennessee. She and her husband moved to Florida in 1967 where she continued her studies and work as a nursing home administrator. She received her license in July 1972. In October 1979, Doris opened her third nursing home in Defuniak Springs, Florida, after having already opened two 120-bed facilities, one in Venice and one in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

After visiting JKV, Doris felt she had another challenge ahead of her as the administrator for our medical center. Quoted in the Summer 1980 The Pulse Beat, Mrs. Branch stated:

"I love the atmosphere here and appreciate the reception you have given me. I’m enjoying every minute and intend to make this my home.”

Doris served as administrator of the JKV Med Center until May 1983. In 1988 she retired from nursing home administration and relocated to John Knox Village to live.