Dorsey Van King

Dorsey Van King, 86, of Garner, passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at State Employees Credit Union Hospice House in Smithfield.

Dorsey was born on August 17, 1938 in Johnston County to the late Prince King and Ava Clifton King.

Dorsey graduated from Cleveland School in 1957 and entered the US Army the same year. He served as a paratrooper and Linguistic Specialist. He left service in 1966. He was always ready to share his experiences and pride in the Army. He left the service and began his career as a Postal Clerk for the United States Postal Service, retiring in 1987. After a short break, he started working and then retired from a position with the State of North Carolina. He enjoyed being outside in his yard putting in hours of work making sure all weeds were removed quickly, keeping a manicured yard and taking care of his wife’s roses. He was devoted to Nicholas and his care and wellbeing and made sure to always have honeybuns for Nick when he came to visit. Dorsey was always very caring for others and their needs and helpful where he could be.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife of  58 years, Lois Thompson King. Sister Margaret King; Brothers Bruce King, Robert King and James King,

He is survived by his daughter Connie Jones and her husband; son Richard King and wife Lee King; sister Rachel and her husband Walt Stewart; brother Larry King of Florida;  grandchildren, Brandy Jones, Nicholas Jones and Sara King and great granddaughter Lexi Caralivanos. He also had several nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at the Faith Free Will Baptist Church from 10 - 11 a.m. with funeral services beginning at 11 a.m. Officiating the service will be Rev. Allen Wayne Stanley. Burial will follow at the Faith Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery.

 Dunn Funeral Home of Benson is honored to serve the King family.

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