James Dorsey Obituary

In Loving Memory of James Wallace Dorsey July 19, 1941 – May 16, 2025
With heavy hearts but deep gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of James Wallace Dorsey, age 83, a former resident of Orange, NJ. James transitioned peacefully on May 16, 2025, at home in North Brunswick, NJ, surrounded by the love and presence of his devoted family.
James was born on July 19, 1941, in Surry, Virginia to Julia Dorsey and Clarence Johnson. Rooted in Southern values and strength, he spent his early years in Virginia before journeying north to New Jersey, where his life blossomed in beautiful and unexpected ways.
A man of many jobs and many stories, James lived with purpose and passion. While driving a taxi in Madison, NJ, he met the woman who would become his beloved wife. Not long after, he welcomed his greatest joy-his daughter, Towanna Renee-into the world. James embraced fatherhood with unwavering love and dedication, becoming the steady, nurturing presence his family could always count on. James would relocate to East Orange, NJ after his divorce.
James built a career as a stock clerk at Bell Labs, later known as AT&T, in Whippany, NJ. For 25 years, he worked diligently, always providing for those he loved. When he retired in 1993, he fully embraced life's joys-bringing laughter, generosity, and spirit into every room he entered.
Known by many as the life of the party, James had a heart as big as his smile. He loved to laugh, to shop, and to bet on the horses at The Meadowlands and Off-Track Betting in Fords, NJ. He was a storyteller, a grill master, and an artist with a pocket knife-carving frames and sculptures with creativity and care. He adored his grandchildren and cherished moments spent cooking for family and friends.
James is survived by his loving daughter, Towanna Renee, and his beloved grandchildren: Erica, Alexis, Calvin, Jaelyn, and Jaxon. He also leaves behind two precious great-granddaughters, Chaise and Emari, 8 sisters, Linda Dorsey (Rensselaer, NY), Delores Dorsey Chesapeake, Virginia-formerly East Orange, NJ), Joyce Johnson Eaton, Doris Johnson, Marilyn Black, and Davina Johnson of Smithfield, VA, Clarecine Powell of Florida, and Ernestine Walls of New Jersey. 1 brother, James Blunt of Virginia, and a village of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who were more like family. He was preceded in death by his beloved brothers-Douglas "Mack" Dorsey of Surry, VA, Clarence Johnson Jr., and Howard Johnson both of Smithfield, VA.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, after the family has had time to process and heal. When that day comes, we will gather in joy and remembrance, just as James would have wanted-with laughter, stories, and love.
To all those who have prayed, sent their love, and wrapped this family in support, we thank you. Your kindness is deeply felt, and your light is seen.
If you are reading this, you knew and loved James-and we send that love right back to you. May his memory live on in our hearts forever.
No services are plan, arrangements have been entrusted to The GLEASON FUNERAL HOME OF NORTH BRUNSWICK, 555 Georges Road, North Brunswick, NJ