Douglas "Mack" Dorsey

Douglas Mack Arthur Dorsey, 79, affectionately known as “Mack,” was born on October 7, 1945, to proud parents Julia Dorsey Hardy and Nicolas Spratley Sr. He was called home on February 14, 2025, in the comfort of his home. 

Mack’s larger-than-life personality left a lasting impression on all who knew him. As the third eldest of four siblings—two sisters and one brother—he naturally took on the role of protector. With a shotgun in hand, he often ensured his sisters were safe, sending mischievous boys running the other way.

Raised on a farm by his sharecropping grandparents, Mack learned the value of hard work early. Mornings and afternoons were spent working the fields alongside his grandfather, Zack Dorsey, before and after school. While he knew farming wasn’t his future, those early lessons in perseverance and self-reliance shaped his character. Determined to forge his path, he took on additional responsibilities, including driving the school bus in high school. His grit and dedication paid off—he bought his first car by selling his first pig.

After graduating from Luther Porter Jackson High School in Surry County, VA, Mack pursued a career in auto mechanics, honing his skills at Pools Filling Station. This hands-on experience laid the groundwork for his lifelong work ethic.

Mack later married Doris M. Drew, with whom he had two children, Bryan and Deborah. Though their union eventually ended, they remained dedicated co-parents, raising their children with the same values of hard work and determination that Mack had embraced since childhood.

Mack built a career at Newport News Shipyard to provide for his family. Later, he transitioned to Norfolk Naval Yard as a pipefitter, where he worked until retirement. Along his journey, he met and married Brenda Ann Edwards, his devoted partner through life’s twists and turns.

In retirement, Mack’s passion for gardening became a source of joy—not just for himself but for the elders in his community, with whom he generously shared his harvest.

A man of deep faith, Mack found solace and strength in his church, spending Sundays in worship.

Anyone who knew Mack could count on one thing—he was unapologetically himself. Honest, direct, caring, loving, and generous, he was always quick to lend a hand and firm in his beliefs. As he often said, “You know I’m always thinking.”

Mack leaves behind a loving wife, Brenda Ann Dorsey (Surry, VA); his children, Bryan L. Dorsey (Bowie,MD) and Deborah D. Dorsey (Charlotte,NC); and his stepson, Ryan Edwards (Huntingtown,MD). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Bryona Dorsey, Brandon Dorsey, Nancy Riddick, and Bryan Edwards; great-granddaughters Niyla Dorsey and Malia Edwards; his brother, Wallace Dorsey; his sisters, Delores Dorsey and Linda Dorsey; and his brother, Nicolas Spratley Jr. (Katheran).

He is fondly remembered by his in-laws Cornelius Drew (Eliza), Vergena Harper (Jerome), Dennis Drew, Karen Bouden (Lorraine), and Johnette Edwards, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his caregivers, Nicole Hardy, Monee Pierre, Venisha Ames, and Arthur Diggs -your kindness and care for Mack will never be forgotten.

Mack’s legacy of love, hard work, and generosity will live on in all who are blessed to know him.

On Friday, February 21, 2025  from 3-6pm viewing will take place at Shivers Funeral Chapel.  A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11am on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at First Gravel Hill Baptist Church.  Interment will follow at Mt. Nebo Cemetery.  Please keep the Dorsey family in your prayers.