Luther Ray Dorsey Jr.

July 2, 2022: Luther “Ray” Dorsey (90) took his final flight through the clouds on his journey to meet his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Ray was blessed to enjoy many years of piloting. Devoted to Cessna airplanes—any reason to go fly was a good one as far as he was concerned!

Ray was gentle in spirit always sharing a kind word, an optimistic outlook, or a spicier politically motivated opinion. A people lover—Ray went out of his way to start conversations with friends and strangers alike. His vivid memory painted pictures of bygone days which captivated and entertained his audiences.

Ray was born February 11, 1932 in San Angelo Texas to parents Luther Ray Dorsey, Sr. and Grace Elizabeth (Crawford) Dorsey.

He served in the US Army as an MP during the Korean War. Later, Ray met the love of his life Sharon Buchanan at the drug store in Big Lake, and after a proper courtship married in 1957. Moving to Jal, NM, he raised his family while working in the communications department for EL Paso Natural Gas, serving the company for 36 years. Lifelong friendships were created and maintained from his time there. Ray simultaneously owned and operated R&S Communications, a two way radio service company. A successful entrepreneur, Ray Dorsey proved a natural born salesman, whom associates seemed to instantly like and trust. He retired in 1991 and relocated to Mertzon TX, where he nurtured the land and maintained his 20 acre home on Spring Creek. This place provided more joy and happiness than words can express. Later, physical limitations spawned a move to San Angelo where Ray and Sharon resided for 6 years.

Recent health events had forced a move to Odessa, where Ray passed peacefully in his sleep.

Ray was preceded in death by his Father Luther Ray Dorsey SR. his mother Grace Elizabeth Dorsey, brothers Charles Ronnie Dorsey and David Dorsey.

Those left to celebrate Ray’s life include his wife of 65 years, Sharon Dorsey, son Mike Dorsey and wife Kelly of Granbury, Daughter Teri Dorsey Pearce and husband Andy of Odessa, Grandchildren Taylor (Dorsey) Pestrue and husband Austin, Rayce Dorsey and his fiancé Erin Bittner, Bryan Pearce and wife Eowyn, and grandson Bryce Pearce. Ray enjoyed one great grandson, James Raymond Pearce. Ray also leaves behind nephews Ronnie Dorsey and wife Karen, their daughter Katie, Mitchell Dorsey and wife Carolyn, their sons John and Matthew.

Deeply rooted in the San Angelo-Christoval area, the family history includes many friends and family members whose love and relationships he cherished.

While we mourn his earthly loss, the family chooses to rejoice in knowing that Ray reached his eternal home, reveling with his passed loved ones and at last embracing his Jesus! We envision an eternal family reunion, assured to be taking place by the promised Word of God.

*Donation may be made to the West Texas Boys Ranch in San Angelo.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.frankwwilson.com for the Dorsey family.