Richard “Rick” O. Dority, age 77, of Centralia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025. He was born on September 2, 1947, in Warsaw, Missouri, the son of Granvel and Ella May Dority.
After graduating from Boonville High School in 1966, Rick was drafted into the U.S. Army and stationed in Korea. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in the artillery division and was deeply honored to be selected for the Central Missouri Honor Flight later in life.
Rick was a man of many passions. He found great joy in hunting, fishing, camping, and traveling the world. Above all, he cherished his role as a father and grandfather. A devoted family man, Rick was always present, offering love, wisdom, and support to his children and grandchildren. His kind heart and special connection with children will always be remembered.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Debi Dority; his parents, Granvel and Ella May Dority; two brothers, Mike and Jack Dority; and his daughter, Lisa Walston.
Rick is survived by his loving companion, Belinda Davenport of Hallsville, Missouri; daughters Annette Hargis and her husband Joe of Hallsville, Missouri, and Deidre Botkins and her husband David, also of Hallsville; son-in-law Rich Walston of Columbia, Missouri; his cherished grandchildren: Sheridan, Rachel, Garrett, Kayla, Anthony, Misty, Jennifer, Rico, Lathan, Nick, and Alexis; four great-grandchildren; four brothers; two sisters; and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
A memorial service will be held at Reser Funeral Home in Warsaw, Missouri, on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Graveside services will immediately follow at Dority Cemetery in Climax Springs.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in loving memory of Rick.
