George Dorsey

Our Father, George Willard Dorsey (Daddy to us and fondly known as “Chookie” by his family and close friends) was born on July 10, 1933 and passed away on January 12, 2025. He was the youngest of two sons born to James Melvin Dorsey and Lela Mae Dorsey in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and he is preceded in death by his parents and that older brother, James Melvin Dorsey, Jr.

Daddy is survived by his wife of 27 years, Willa Dorsey, his children Deborah Jean Dorsey, Sylvia Ann Dorsey, Rebecca Lee Dorsey, Carolyn Marie Peterson (Alvin), Amy Lynn Crider (Tony), Michael Lawrence Dorsey (Gloria), George Andrew Dorsey; stepdaughter, Catherine Young, 15 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren.

Daddy was introduced to the Truth by our Grandfather, James, who served as an Elder in the Aliquippa Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses until his passing in 1993. In October of 1956, he symbolized his dedication to Jehovah God by water baptism and served Jehovah faithfully for many years at the Aliquippa Congregation. He was a member of the Choir back in the days when the Organization had the Choir perform during intermission at our District Conventions. He had many talents, including construction and was among the many who helped build the Kingdom Hall on Carol Street in Aliquippa. Secularly, he worked at J&L Steel Mill in Aliquippa for many years in the wire mill and later, at Edgar Thompson Steel Mill in Braddock as a heavy equipment operator. They say there is no heavy machine manufactured that Daddy could not operate. He had a deep love for machinery and owned and operated several tractors, bulldozers and backhoes after his retirement. His son, Mike. said that one of the things he liked most was “tinkering” with his “toys”. One of his other passions was cutting his spacious lawn on his riding lawn mower. He couldn’t get enough of driving and after he retired from the mill, he took on a part time job with his daughter, Rebecca, delivering mail all through Westmoreland County and later driving for Uber/Lyft with his 3 daughters, Deborah, Sylvia, and Rebecca.

Some of his other hobbies included hunting, farming, crossword puzzles, listening to jazz music, and taking road trips. Slow and easy, that was his technique. When we would travel, he would just cruise down the highway. . . no rush. . .taking in the scenery, one hand on the wheel, the other elbow out the window. Daddy also liked quiet. Even though he had a hearty voice and laugh, he would constantly shoosh his 5 daughters down.

Sadly, in the last couple years of his life, Daddy developed dementia and, as he was so accustomed to being a busy man, would sometimes wander off in an attempt to go to work, cut the grass, or get the mail delivered. So, in order to keep him safe, he had to be admitted to a nursing home. His caregivers loved him and said he was a joy to take care of. He always had a big smile when we came to visit; however, all he wanted to do was come home. We are all looking forward to the day when he will hear Jesus’ voice, open his eyes, and realize that he is finally home.

We, the family of George W. Dorsey wish to thank everyone for their love and support during this difficult time of our lives. It has meant so much to us.