~ IN MEMORY ~
USAF veteran, WA/DL Capt. John David Dorris
September 7, 1946 ~ December 13, 2025
John Dorris passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025 in Denver, CO. He was born in Galveston, TX in 1946 to Loris and Sara Dorris. He left behind a legacy of love, adventure and dedication. As the son of an Air Force pilot, John moved frequently during his childhood, including a memorable period spent in Japan, where he graduated from Narimasu High School in 1964. Along with his six siblings, he crossed the seas by ship, shaping the adventurous spirit that would define his life.
John pursued higher education at Louisiana Tech University before seeking even greater adventures. He joined the Air Force in 1968 and went on to earn his wings at Moody AFB, GA and then flew C-123 aircraft during the Vietnam War. After his service, John transitioned to the Air Force Reserve, aiming to fulfill his dream of becoming an airline pilot. He was hired by Western Airlines and retired from Delta Air Lines.
In 1980, John met the love of his life, Debbie, and they married in 1983 in Redlands, CA, where he was stationed at Norton AFB, CA. Their family grew to include three wonderful children: Bethany, Jeffrey, and Susie. In 1990, the family moved to Peachtree City, GA, where John took great joy in flying for Delta, often taking his family on exciting layovers and overseas trips.
John was not only a dedicated husband and loving father but also a loyal friend. Known for his hospitality, he often invited fellow pilots over for barbecues and homemade meals, albeit with a well-known wait until 9:00 PM for late arrivals. After moving to Chesterfield, MO, he continued his military career at Scott AFB in O’Fallon, IL. He retired from the Air Force Reserve in 2006 as a Major General at Offutt AFB, NE.
His guidance as a father, mentorship as a leader, and zest for life left a profound impact on those around him. John will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his love for family, and his incredible ability to bring people together.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Debbie; his children, Bethany, Jeff Dorris (Kelly), and Susie Dorris (Sam); and his siblings, Mary Palmer, Debbie Evans, and Janet McGrath. He was preceded in death by his parents, Loris and Sara Dorris, and his siblings, Tannie Paquette, Anne Bonelli, and Sara Hover. He will be deeply missed by family and friends alike.
A celebration of life will be at 1 p.m. on January 29, 2026 at the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, 7711 East Academy Blvd, Denver, CO 80230, http://wingsmuseum.org/. Kindly RSVP to dawndeshefy@gmail.com
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in John’s memory be made to Honor Flight via www.highplainshonorflight.org/donate
To view the obituary and to share memories online, please visit
https://www.abplace-funeral-cremation.com/obituaries/John-David-Dorris?obId=46729422