Dorman Walthall's Obituary
Dorman Lee Walthall, age 87, passed away on June 8, 2024, in Dunedin, Florida, after a long battle with dementia. He was born on May 21, 1937, in Edwards, Missouri, to parents William Buell and Della May Walthall.
Raised in a small town, Dorman had a deep love for baseball. As a teenager, he moved to Kansas City, where he coached his son’s Little League baseball, sharing his passion for the sport with young players. Dorman later enlisted in the Navy, proudly serving his country aboard the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown.
He married the love of his life, Frances Karen Dye, and together they built a beautiful life. From this loving union, they welcomed a son, Russell Allen Walthall. After retiring, Dorman returned to work part-time as a school bus attendant, where he found joy in transporting and caring for children with special needs and challenges, he loved every minute of it.
Dorman is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Frances Karen Walthall; his son Russell Allen Walthall and wife Vickee; and his grandchildren, Lindsey Leone and husband Tyson, Evan Walthall and wife Maureen; Chad Walthall and Margaret Branco, Zackaree Newton and Charlie Newton. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren Norah Mae, Jackson, and Sofia, his sister-in-law Judith Jackson, her children Jennifer and husband Jim Koenig and their children Jackson and Katherine, and Heather and her two children. Additionally, he is survived by his brother-in-law, Thomas Dye, his wife, Martha, and many beloved cousins. Dorman was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Donna Hale.
Dorman was a simple man. He enjoyed baseball, golf, bowling, and football. Despite his varied interests, Dorman was fundamentally a kind, hardworking man who cherished his family above all else. He was a good man, a devoted husband, and a loving father.
Visitation and services will be held at White Chapel Funeral Home in Gladstone, Missouri, starting at 10 AM. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Caregivers and staff of Dunedin Hospice for their compassionate care during the last year and a half of Dorman's life, both at home and in the facility, to allow him to be at home with Franny until his last days.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Friends and family wishing to send condolences to Frances can do so at 2154 Gulf View Boulevard, Building C, Dunedin, Florida 34698.
Dorman's legacy of love, dedication, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
What’s your fondest memory of Dorman?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dorman?
Share a story where Dorman's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dorman you’ll never forget.
How did Dorman make you smile?