Mary E. Dorsey

She was born on March 20, 1943, in Atlanta, Georgia, to Charles R. and Elizabeth H. Eason, and was lovingly raised by her aunt and uncle, Mary and Dennis Reichert of Tallahassee. Aunt Mary and Uncle Dennis were a positive force in her young life and helped shape the strong and independent woman she became.

Mary graduated from Leon High School in 1961. She was a very popular and well-studied student and was appointed to various courts, including Homecoming and May Party. She was also active in the journalism department and wrote for the newsletter and yearbook. She later attended Florida State University.

A natural self-starter, Mary moved to Fort Lauderdale in 1967 at age 24 with her young son, Bartow, by her side. In 1971, she married John Dorsey and soon they welcomed their daughter, Mary Jeannette Dorsey. Mary and John shared a long and happy marriage until his passing in 2023. She was quickly embraced as a loving member of the Dorsey clan as John was the oldest of seven children in the Dorsey family.

While in Ft. Lauderdale, she built a successful career, rising from administrative roles to executive positions in banking with Barnett Bank of Florida and later in economic development with Broward County. She was also involved in fund raising activities for several charitable organizations. Together, She and John built and operated J. Dorsey Real Estate and Appraisal before retiring and returning home to Tallahassee.

Mary was very kind and always put others before herself. She was very funny as humor was a very common thread throughout every chapter of her life. Mary had a natural instinct to make sure everyone else was cared for before tending to herself.

Mary expressed her love and creativity through knitting and needlepoint, happily sharing scarves, Afghan blankets and pillows with family and friends. She also found great joy in raising a beloved line of miniature dachshunds, Gizmo, Junior, Pepper, and Bailey, who brought her endless companionship and delight.

Her proudest accomplishment was her children, Bartow and Jeannette. Mary was very generous, especially putting her children first in every way.

Mary was preceded in death by her daughter, Jeannette; her siblings, Harriet (“Nonie”) Schoelles of Apalachicola, Florida, and Lewis Eason of Quincy, Florida; and her husband, John Dorsey.

Mary is survived by her son, R. Bartow Rainey, Jr. of Tallahassee.

Her gracious spirit and natural elegance left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and quiet kindness.

A Celebration of Life Reception will be held on Saturday, March 7th, 2pm to 5pm at Jubilee Cottage, Goodwood Museum and Gardens, 1600 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32308.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to LeMoyne Arts or Leon County Humane Society.