Ralph Eugene "Johnny"

Ralph Eugene "Johnny" Dorton, 78, passed away on Wednesday morning, December 12 at the Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Laura. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Sylvia L. Dorton of Greenville and dedicated son, Jonathan Peter Dorton. Johnny's other children are Ralph, Lucy, Karen Sue, Bill, Greg, Cindy and Scott. He was a wonderful husband, father and his grandsons Joshua and Garrett were his life always refering to them as his boys. He also loved his sister-in-laws, Irma and family, Janet Napier and family. Early in his life he worked the coal mines in Dunbar, VA the became an independent contractor who loved working year round outdoors for his family through good weather and bad. Loved by all, he especially loved his dog, Baxter with all his heart. Johnny was 17 years old when he enlisted in the US Army during WWII serving as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division, being stationed in Sapporo, Japan. Not only did Johnny fight for his country, he fought a courageous battle with Alzhiemer's and finally surrendered to God and is now at peace. Johnny Loved the Lord and is now at home in heaven. Our hearts are broken, but we will see you again someday. Dad I love you most, Pete. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Sarah (Bentley) Dorton; siblings, Colbert, Cleo, C.J., Gayle, Harry, Rendae, Audrey, Ruth, Phoebe and Doris. Services will be held Saturday, December 15 at 11:30 a.m. at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home, Greenville with Ronnie Dorton and Robert Odle officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow in the Mote Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home Saturday from 10:30 a.m. till time of services at 11:30 a.m. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to the Alzhiemer's Association.