Billy Dortch, 49, of Florence, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Monday, November 9, 2009, after a year-long battle with cancer. Billy was a strong and courageous man who fought a hard battle. He was a friend to many, and often gave more of himself to help those in need. Even through his journey, he saw a need in his church for a special prayer and care ministry that he recently started. He enjoyed spending time with his pastor praying for the sick, and writing letters of encouragement to them each week.
Billy received his Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Alabama. He was a brilliant businessman who excelled in sales and strategy. He began his career at Durr Medical while in high school, and continued with Bergen Brunswig, Cardinal Health, and Blue Medical. He began working in the warehouse and progressed through the ranks to a stellar territory salesman for the Northwest Alabama, Northeast Mississippi and Southwest Tennessee. His most recent business venture found him self-employed with his business, SAS Medical. He was also half owners in Pen-Mar Auto Sales with his partner and long-time friend, Frank Doerflinger. His love for Alabama football and sports in general often found him at Bama games cheering the Tide to victory on Saturdays, no matter the location. Before his passing, Billy was proud to learn of his championship status for his Fantasy Baseball League for 2009. Members of his league personally delivered the trophy to his hospital room. These men, who will serve as pallbearers, are Mitch Parrish, Tim Hopson, Frank Doerflinger, Greg Crane, Barry Bland, Keith Parrish, Mike Hamilton, Scott Owens, Randall Fox, Danny Puckett and Tony Palmer.
He is survived by his wife; Marleen Raybon Dortch, two children, Deanna L. Beck (Greg), of Albertville, and Dalisha D. Herring of Tallahassee, Florida, and his parents, Kirksey (Buddy) and Virginia of Birmingham. He is also survived by three brothers and one sister; Preston Dortch of Birmingham, Kirk Dortch (Linnie) of Carrollton, Georgia, Cheryl Shoemaker (Patrick) of Birmingham, and Ken Dortch (Alisa) of Birmingham. And his eight nieces and nephews, Ashley White, Heather White, Houston White, Molly Dortch, Amanda Davis, Logan Dortch, Duffee Dortch and Katie Dortch.
A memorial service will be held at Woodmont Baptist church of Florence, on Thursday, November 12, 2009, at 11 A.M. with Brother Jerry Rea officiating, followed by a graveside service at Forest Crest cemetery, Birmingham, at 3:30 P.M. with Dr. Jimmy Wilson officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2009, from 9 A.M. to 10:45 A.M. at Elkins Funeral Home Florence, with the memorial service following.
The family would like to thank the outstanding staff and family at Helen Keller Hospital for their loyalty, devotion and care of Billy throughout his illness. A special Thanks to Dr. Jack McLendon, Dr. Patrick Daughtery, Dr, Karl Hagler, Dr. Hemant Patel, Dr. Subir K. Paul, Dr. Rajesh Boorgu, Dr. Rao Boorgu and the thoughtful staff.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Woodmont Baptist Church, or the American Cancer Society, 104 S. Poplar St. Florence, AL 35630.
Elkins Funeral Home is assisting the family.