JD Dolph

JD Dolph, Jerry Lee Dolph before his name change in 1999, died on Monday, June 24, 2024, at the age of 81.

JD was born in Urbana, Illinois on November 9, 1942, to Harry and Marguerite (Goss) Dolph. He served in the United States Navy for four years, from September 25, 1961 to September 24, 1965. He was a Boilerman Third Class and his last assignment was as a driver to the General on the island of Guam. JD had many enjoyable stories about his assignment and time in Guam. He also received his Certificate of Equivalency for High School Achievement on January 21, 1964. He worked for Dow Chemical and was a proud member of the Danbury, TX Volunteer Fire Department. 

JD stayed very active throughout his life. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed many hours with his wife, Bettie, riding in the boat, camping at the beach and fishing in many areas but his favorite was Lake Amistad in Del Rio, TX. Through the years, JD remodeled his and Bettie’s house multiple times along with building many woodworking projects for family and friends which are still enjoyed today. JD will be missed by his family and friends.

He is predeceased in death by his wife, Bettie Dolph; his father, Harry Dolph; his mother, Marguerite Goss Dolph; and his niece, Vickie Streb.

JD is survived by his sister, Sherrie Esserine; his nephew, Trey McGhee (Teri); his niece, Pam Giacomini; grand-nieces and grand-nephews; along with his stepchildren, Johnny Naylor, Kay Dennis (Dan) and Joni Barber (Mike); step-grandchildren, Dustin Baugh, Jeremy Baugh (Lacey), Chris Baugh (Sarah), Chase Naylor (Celise), Lynzi Naylor, Kayla Naylor, Caleb Barber (Estella) and Calli Barber-York (Dakota); and his 10 step-great-grandchildren.

A private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.