Debra A. Dorsey (née Schmidt), age 72, departed this world on July 13, 2026, in her hometown of St. Joseph, Missouri. Debra was born on August 26, 1953, the daughter of John and Janice (Anderson) Schmidt.
She was a proud graduate of Lafayette High School class of 1971. She married Ronald Dorsey on October 27, 1973; he preceded her in death on November 14, 2017.
Her deep sense of responsibility and selfless nature led her into a career where she could make a difference every day: working as a CNA at local nursing facilities and later as a secretary at Liberty Hospital. She enjoyed listening to her music, no matter how loud.
She is survived by her sons, Brian Lee Dorsey and Danny Dorsey; her stepson Ronnie Dorsey. Debra was a treasured sister to, John “Pete” (Linda) Schmidt, Jeff (Susan) Schmidt, Kathy Allen and Casey (Shirley) Schmidt. She is also survived by her grandchildren and her numerous nieces and nephews.
She now reunites with those who passed before her: including her father, John Schmidt; her mother, Janice Schmidt; her husband, Ronald Dorsey; and her stepson, Donnie Dorsey.
All services will be on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. A rosary will begin at 12:00 noon and visitation with the family will follow until a Funeral Service at 1:00 PM officiated by Dcn. Joshua Fultz. Burial will follow the service in Oak Hill Cemetery in Atchison, Memorials may be left to M’Shoogy’s Emergency Animal Rescue.Donate Online to M'Shoogy's Emergency Animal Rescue
