Floyd Judson “Jean” Dorsey Jr.
June 5, 1927 – May 2, 2020
MANHATTAN — Floyd Judson “Jean” Dorsey Jr., Manhattan, formerly of Wabaunsee, died May 2, 2020, at Via Christi Village, Manhattan. He was 92.
Floyd was born June 5, 1927, in Berryville, Va., the son of Floyd and Myrtle Wells Dorsey. He attended local schools. Floyd earned a degree in archaeology and psychology from Emporia State University.
At the age of 16, he lied about his age and joined the Army. When it was discovered he was under age, he joined the Merchant Marines until he was 18 and then rejoined the U.S. Army. Floyd was a carrier soldier during WWII and Korea. He retired from the military in 1968 with the rank of Sergeant Major. After his military service, Floyd worked construction, delivered bread and drove a school bus.
He loved to work jigsaw puzzles and would teach his children to lay the puzzle upside down so that no color or pictures would help him put together the puzzle. He enjoyed singing, whistling and gardening. He was an avid reader. He loved to be outside and during his time at Via Christi Village, he would do what he called “walk a bouts” and travel in his wheelchair various places in Manhattan. He was the first ever recognized volunteer at Via Christi. He was a very active and beloved member of the Via Christi Community. Floyd was a Spiritualist and an ordained minister.
Floyd married Gwendolyn Annis June 12, 1951. She preceded him in death on Jan. 20, 2011.
Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Johnnie Dorsey; a daughter, Karen “Sissy” Haynes; a great-grandson; two sisters, Louise and Hallie; and two sons-in-law, Michael McKinney and Jerry Haynes
Floyd is survived by five children, Floyd J. “Trey” Dorsey III, Pine Bluff, Ark., Myrtle “Murt” McKinney, Wamego, Carl Dorsey, Carbondale, Kitty Dorsey, St. George, and Ozzy Dorsey and wife, Kayla) San Marcos, Texas; a daughter-in-law, Brenda Dorsey, Osage City; 17 grandchildren; and 31 great-grandchildren..
A memorial service will be held at Via Christie Village and inurnment, with military honors, at Manhattan Veteran’s Cemetery, at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to Via Christi Village and sent in care of Campanella-Evans Mortuary, P.O. Box 232, Wamego, KS 66547.
Condolences may be expressed at www.campanellafuneral.com.
