James Howard Dorsey's Obituary
James Howard "Grandpa" Dorsey, 83, of Welch, Oklahoma, passed away Wednesday, April 17, 2013 at home with his family by his side. He was born June 30, 1929 in Cardin, Oklahoma to Paul James and Clara Edna (Baker) Dorsey. He was a graduate of Grove High School, Class of 1948. He attended college at NEO A&M in Miami. James proudly served his country with the United States Air Force, Strategic Air Command, while stateside during the Korean Conflict. He married Wanda Lee McKinney in Johnson, KS on January 20, 1952. James enjoyed farming and watching his grandkids grow. He had a passion for flying. He even started to get his license to fly, but his family always came first. Grandpa Dorsey was known for his ministry to the youth of the community. He was an active member of Gateway Church in Welch. He will be greatly missed by all. He was preceded in death by his parents; 1 grandson, Jeffery Allen Dorsey; 1 brother, William A. Dorsey; and 1 sister, Dena Bolton. He is survived by his wife, Wanda, of 61 years; 3 sons, Ray Dorsey of Kenai, Alaska, Dale Dorsey of Welch, Tony Dorsey, Anchorage, Alaska; 2 daughters, Cindy Smiley of Rye, Colorado, and Sandra Grue of Terry, Montana; 2 sisters, Sharon Dare of Oklahoma City, and Bertha Smith of Meeker, OK; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a host of friends. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 20, 2013 at Gateway Church in Welch. Pastors Patrick and Trudy Hankins will officiate. A private family burial will be held at a later date. The family will receive friends at the home of Wanda Dorsey, Friday evening until 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Grandpa Dorsey to the Gateway Youth, to further his legacy, c/o Thomas Funeral Home, P.O. Box 231, Welch, OK 74369.
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