Dorsey B. Dear, Jr.

Dorsey B. Dear, Jr., 67, of Frankford, Delaware, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday, July 6, 2026.

Born in Lewes, Delaware, on February 24, 1959, Dorsey was the son of the late Dorsey B. Dear, Sr. and Rachel Josephine (Melson) Dear. He was a proud graduate of Indian River High School, Class of 1977, and honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1982 to 1986.

Dorsey began his career in construction, working for Zonko Builders and Cabinetry Unlimited before joining Peninsula Nurseries. For the past 25 years, he was a dedicated grain mill operator with Mountaire in Frankford, where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment.

A devoted Republican, Dorsey had a deep interest in politics and enjoyed staying informed about current events. He was an avid sports fan who faithfully followed the New York Giants, New York Yankees, NASCAR, and professional wrestling. In earlier years, he enjoyed buying and refinishing furniture alongside his father-in-law and took pride in gardening. He found joy in listening to classic rock, spending time with his family, and showering his beloved pets with affection.

In addition to his parents, Dorsey was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, William Orville Bailey, Sr. and Gracie P. Bailey; his sisters, Brenda Lee Dear and Sandra Dee Dear; his sister-in-law, Penny Lewis; and his cherished canine companion, Chessie.

He leaves behind the love of his life, his wife of 37 years, Mary Beth (Bailey) Dear; his two sons, Dorsey B. Dear III and Joshua Dear; his sisters, Pauline Dear, Donna Chorman, and Robin Dear; his beloved dogs, Josephine Grace and Bella; his cat, Tom; and his grandpup, Pepper.

Following the passing of his parents-in-law, Dorsey developed especially close relationships with his brothers- and sisters-in-law, who became like siblings to him: Kim Brewington (Eddie III), Betty Grace Eskridge (Mike), Lillian Bailey (Tommy), Cheryl Workman (Dennis), and William Orville "Bud" Bailey, Jr. He is also survived by his lifelong friend, Stewart McGinnis; his special nephew, William "Billy" Orville Bailey III; and several other nieces and nephews, all of whom will cherish his memory.

Dorsey will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his dedication to his work and country, his loyalty to his friends, and the quiet joys that made his life rich. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the Frankford Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 43 Thatcher Street, Frankford, DE 19945. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 noon, with interment to follow at St. George's Cemetery in Clarksville, Delaware.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com