ISU Mourns the Loss of Doris Brydon

Doris graduated from Idaho State College in 1952 with a degree in zoology and dedicated her life to supporting ISU and the Pocatello community alongside her late husband, Dr. William (Bill) Brydon. It was at Idaho State that she met Bill during a German Club activity making strudel—a memory she cherished.

“So much of what ISU is today was guided by the input and support of Bill and Doris Brydon,” says Dr. Kandi Turley-Ames, dean of the College of Arts and Letters. “Their legacy will continue, and they will forever be missed.”

Doris played a pivotal role in numerous initiatives, from originating ISU’s 50+ reunion to advancing the WWAMI program. She and Bill were instrumental donors to the Stephens Performing Arts Center and ICCU Bengal Alumni Center, among other significant contributions. Doris also served on the College of Arts and Letters Dean’s Advisory Board and received prestigious honors, including the William J. Bartz Award, the President’s Medallion, and the 2021 Minnie Howard Award, which recognizes local women for their outstanding contributions to their profession, community, and leadership.

A trailblazer in health care and business, Doris co-founded the Pocatello Women and Children’s Clinic and the Pocatello Allergy and Asthma Clinic while also earning degrees in zoology, physical therapy, and business finance. Beyond her professional achievements, Doris was deeply involved in local arts, education, and civic organizations.

Linda Hatzenbuehler, Ph.D., ABPP, associate vice president and executive dean emeritus, fondly remembers Doris Brydon as a remarkable role model who adapted gracefully to life's challenges. Doris maintained an active and socially connected lifestyle, from mastering diabetes management to playing Bridge multiple times a week. She was also a champion bread baker, sharing her special recipe loaves with friends and family, often baking alongside her children. Her deep connection to Idaho State University and generosity to its community left a lasting legacy.

“It’s an understatement to say that Doris Brydon was a role model,” Hatzenbuehler says. “Doris remained deeply involved with her alma mater, Idaho State University. The Brydons’ generosity to ISU is notable at the Performing Arts Center, a facility she frequented to attend symphonies and other events, and the newly completed ICCU Alumni Center.”  

“Doris Brydon touched so many lives in her 94 years on this earth,” says Turley-Ames. “She was always looking for ways to support our community and improve the lives of others. She was a friend to everyone and lived modestly in an effort to make sure that everyone around her had what they needed, including so many students at ISU.”

Her memory will live on through the William L. and Doris Brydon Scholarship Endowment at ISU. Donations can be made through the ISU Foundation at 921 S. 8th Ave., Stop 8050, Pocatello, ID 83209, or by calling (208) 282-3470.

Sharon Price, who served alongside Doris on the College of Arts and Letters Dean’s Advisory Board says, “Few people have loved ISU more. Bill and Doris were incredibly generous alums who invested their time, talent, and treasure their entire lives. We were blessed to call them friends.”

View the obituary.