It is with immense sorrow that the family of James Jimmy Dorning announces his passing on Saturday March 9, 2024. He was surrounded by his loved ones on earth, as he was reunited with those in heaven. James was born on September 1, 1949, to Billy Ruth Griffee and Billy Jasper Dorning, in the town of Oneonta, Alabama. He was a brother to Bobby Dorning and Ann Braden.
Jimmy graduated from Boaz High School, class of 1969. He would go on to become one of the best painters in Huntsville. He even painted the rocket at the Space and Rocket center. Not only was Jimmy a talented painter, he was also a talented craftsman and could build and fix just about anything. His daughter Jessica would definitely test his abilities and his patience. All jokes aside, his most fulfilling title and the one that brought him the most joy, was that of dad, stepdad and grandad. To say he was a family man would be a vast understatement. His family was his entire world and he worked tirelessly to support them.
In his spare time, which there wasn’t exactly a lot of, Jimmy enjoyed fishing, boating on the Tennessee River with his family and friends, singing karaoke and watching Auburn football.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Billy Ruth Batey, father, Billy Jasper Dorning, stepfather, Ralph Batey and brother, Bobby Dorning. He leaves behind his daughter, Jessica (Mathias) Allen; stepdaughter, Sarah Slager; stepson, Michael (Jennifer) Griffis; granddaughter, Chelsey Slager; grandson, Tyler Slager; and great-grandson, Chalice Knois. This is a tremendous loss to all of those that were blessed to know him.
His visitation will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. The memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. in the chapel. There will not be a graveside service.
