Wendell “Doc” Paul Dockery

Wendell Paul “Doc” Dockery, born in Butler County, KY, on October 4, 1944, entered into his heavenly home on September 23, 2026. Wendell was a man whose presence brought joy wherever he went. He was an avid Bluegrass music artist and fan, sharing

his love of music with those around him. He was also the kind of neighbor and friend who could fix nearly anything that was broken. If someone needed a helping hand, Wendell was there.

He enjoyed the great outdoors, and very few pictures are found of him without camouflage clothing. Whether it was coon, turkey, or deer hunting, Wendell loved being in the woods. His smile could light up any room, and his contagious laugh was a gift that

will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Wendell spent decades as the Nichols Fire Chief and retired from International Harvester after over 25 years of service. He believed success was the result of hard work and valued a simple way of life—a wave to a neighbor from the porch swing, bringing out his guitar to pick a few strings when the moment felt right, and a dinner table never being truly set without beans and cornbread.

Above all, Wendell was a loving husband, dad, papaw, and great-papaw. His family was his greatest treasure, and the love he gave them will continue to live on through the generations.

Wendell was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Obet Dockery and Lily Gertrude Beasley; his loving wife, Mary Ruth (Medley) Dockery; brothers James Dockery, Ralph Dockery, and Charles Dockery; sisters Hazel Newton and Alice Coy; and his best friend

and son, Greg Dockery.

Left here, with a forever piece of their hearts missing, are his beloved daughter, Tammie Haydon (Steve); daughter-in-law, Pam Dockery; six grandchildren: Zachary Hilburn, Madalyn Tucker (Scott), Kristen Hilburn, Matthew Dockery (Hanna), Marissa Strong

(Dakota), and Audrina Linton; and four great-grandchildren: Tatum Tucker, Lucy Tucker, Owen Dockery, and Leelan Dockery. He is also survived by a brother, Joe Dockery; and special friend, Laverne Embry, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Wendell leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years, but in the lives he touched. His family will forever cherish the memories of his stories, his music, his laughter, and the love he so freely gave. Though their hearts are broken by his passing, they can find comfort knowing that he is rejoicing with the Lord in the company of his wife and son, whom he so dearly missed. His song has ended here, but his music will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Funeral service will be on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at 11:00 am at Hardy Close Funeral home, 285 S Buckman Street, Shepherdsville, KY. Family and friends may pay their respects on Monday from 3:00 to 8:00 pm and again on Tuesday from 9:00 am until the time of the service at 11:00 am.