Richard J. Dottery, Sr.

Richard J. Dottery, Sr., 77, of New Ringgold, passed away Tuesday, October 8th, at his residence.

Born in Allentown on October 10, 1946, he was the son of the late Betty Thomas.

Richard was the husband of Lorraine (Szilezy) Dottery.

After graduating with a Theology degree from Baptist Bible College in Springfield, MI, Richard was ordained as a Baptist Minister in 1970.

Richard was a Vietnam War veteran who served in the U.S. Air Force as a jet mechanic.

In 1974, he began his career as a firefighter for the City of Allentown and was awarded the Official Commendation and Medal for Performance of Acts without Regard to Personal Safety 2 years later. In 1978, Richard completed the Journeyman Firefighter Apprenticeship Program.

Richard had a passion for writing poems.

In addition to his wife, Richard is survived by his children, Christina Zenker; Crystal Darinsig; KatyJo Shoemaker; Glori Thomas; Lorraine Mohr; Richard Dottery, II; Hollie Hirst; and Samantha Bortz. He is also survived by his sister, Darlene Wittman; his brother, Robert Dottery; 16 grandchildren; and 7 great grandchildren.

Services will be private at the family's convenience.