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Thomas Dortch Obituary
"Long before we called it diversity, equity and inclusion, Tommy was hard at work in that space," said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. "In matters of equity, not too much happened here that Tommy wasn't involved in. Tommy was a connector and a facilitator. He knew how to get the right people together to make something good happen for Atlanta."
In 1986, while earning a master's degree in criminal justice from Atlanta University, he joined the 100 Black Men of America. As chairman, Dortch raised nearly $100 million for the organization over 20 years. The organization's headquarters, on Auburn Avenue, bears his name.
Aside from 100 Black Men, Dortch's work in the community has been extensive. He worked with the Atlanta Business League, was an advocate for the Atlanta Public Schools and was the founder of the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame.
Read more about Thomas Dortch on ajc.com
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Dortch
70 Entries
Ebony Coleman
February 27, 2023
A quiet giant. I met him in the area where I live. He was so humble and approachable, powerful but meek. I had known about his civic work for years. When I met him I was so surprised by his welcoming spirit. Outside of the impact he had on people's lives, he must have really touched people who had the pleasure of meeting him personally. I'll always remember him. We were fortunate to have him here among us.
Roz Lewis
February 27, 2023
We are truly sorry for this great lost of a champion to the Atlanta Communities. Our deepest sympathy for the family of Mr. Tommy Dortch.
Roz Lewis, President & CEO, The Greater Women's Business Council
Davetta Bonner White
February 25, 2023
Sincere Condolences to the Dortch Family from the Bonner and Bradford Family of Birmingham, Alabama and the Arrington Family of Nashville, Tn.
Jo Handy-Sewell
February 25, 2023
My sincere condolences to the family and many friends of Tommy Dortch. My God continue to bless his legacy.
Rutherford Douglas and Mary Douglas
February 25, 2023
Deepest sympathy for the family of Thomas Dortch .He was a classmate and sang in the Glee club at Fort Valley State University in 1968 - 1972. May God comfort you during this most grievous time. Rutherford Douglas and family.
State Representative Karen Bennett
February 25, 2023
In loving memory of a great friend and community supporter. Tommy was very supportive of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus and me during my tenure as chair and later as a Trustee on the FDHA. He was a mentor and friend. My sincere condolences to Tommy's loving family and friends. May the work he has done speak for him and be a beacon of light and inspiration to all.
Debra Pinkins Marcus
February 25, 2023
I extend my sincerest condolences to the family of T.W. with love.
Debra Pinkins Marcus
Fort Valley State College
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
Denise Suggs Rixter
February 24, 2023
Tommy was very instrumental in propelling my Corporate America career and appointing me to the Atlanta Business League Board of Directors. I will always treasure our event, political strategic luncheons at Hsu's. Tommy created "partying with a purpose" and treasure the special moments at all TWD/HOF/GAME events. I thank you my dear friend for the good times helping others!
To Carole and the entire family, I sincerely wish you peace and comfort. Thank you for sharing him with me and all lives he touched.
Vincent Sylvain and Gwendolyn Hughes (Louisiana Unity Coalition)
February 24, 2023
In memory of the great works of Thomas Dortch, the Louisiana Unity Coalition, NCBCP, and Louisiana Black Women's Roundtable would like to express our thoughts and prayers to Tommy's family and friends. Keep the Faith!
Vincent Sylvain, Convener
Louisiana Unity Coalition, NCBCP
Gwendolyn Hughes, Convener
Louisiana Black Women's Roundtable
Delilah Session
February 24, 2023
To the Family,
I join the scores of those whose lives we touch in some way by the life and legacy of Dr. Thomas Dortch. Also today, I join in prayer for you as you celebrate the life of one who was devoted to serving humankind. Know that Dr. Dortch fulfilled his earthly mission and is now resting in peace and power.
May you find comfort in memories knowing that God will take care of you.
Krystal Wilson
February 23, 2023
My condolences to the family. I 1st met Mr. Dortch as a contestant in the HBCU Atlanta based pageant back in 1993. His presence back then impressed me and I have been a fan of this mover and shaker ever since. I only wished I had the opportunity to sit under his tutelage coming up in business. I have had the pleasure of hearing him speak on a few occasions and with ABL. His presence will definitely be missed.
Dr. Wendy Labat
February 23, 2023
You will be truly missed but you left a mark that can not be erased.
Alycia Carter
February 23, 2023
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Nykita Hurt
February 22, 2023
Heartfelt condolences to the Dortch family.
Brenda Reid
February 22, 2023
When you met Tommy Dortch you knew right away he was a great leader and soldier, who's thoughts were bigger than most. I pray his legacy lives on through the organizations he founded and supported. Rest in Peace!
Emmett D. Johnson
February 22, 2023
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
James Middlebrooks
February 21, 2023
my condolences goes out to his family
James Middlebrooks with AAA Parking
Margaret Fox
February 21, 2023
Grief can be so hard, but our special joyful & loving memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Patricia M. Chisholm
February 20, 2023
Sending my condolences and prayers to the Dortch family. Mr. Dortch´s contributions to our community and country will forever be appreciated.
Tabatha Thompson
February 20, 2023
My sincere condolences to the entire Dortch family you are in my thoughts and prayers. I always look forward to seeing him at Mercedes Benz Stadium when we had a game. He would stop by the concierge desk on the upper suite level and speak and ask how we were doing. He was always friendly and took the time out to give a hug and smile and friendly word. I will truly miss seeing you my friend. Rest in power.
Charles Varner Jr
February 20, 2023
I had the pleasure of meeting Tommy Dortch when we were both Alumni Directors at our respective
Colleges, in 1972. I at ASU and he at Fort Valley State. We met many times after at conferences, workshops or telephone. I saw then that he was filled with brilliant prospective ideas for growth. His mind was never idle. He said then what he planned to become and by golly, he did. He inducted me into the Black College Alumni Hall of Fame in Atlanta, at the Renaissance Hotel, in 1986. He was truly a Renaissance Man. His dreams became his reality. RIP Tommy. Charlie Varner, Jr. (ASU V/P Retired)
TYSON MITCHELL
February 20, 2023
Just saw you in Cleveland recently and you imparted your knowledge. I am proud to call you friend, mentor, and brother. I have much work to do if I want to emulate your effect on our people.
Felicia Wasson
February 20, 2023
Grateful for the life of Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. He was a giant of man, that humbly offered his time and concern to causes and people he cared for so deeply. While he will be greatly missed, his legacy of service will live on. Sincerest condolences to the entire Dortch family and the community that was the recipient of his generosity. Rest well, good and faithful servant.
Eleanor Kinlaw-Ross
February 20, 2023
Rest In Peace Sir. Journey now to your rest. Servant of God, well done!
Bennie Wiley
February 20, 2023
My sincerest blessings and condolences to the family.
May God continue to bless you.
Ronney Harper
February 19, 2023
Prayers & condolences to the Dortch Family. Met Thomas when we played basketball against each other. I am from Hartwell & met again at FVSU. Always a great friend & home boy. He will truly be missed. RIP my friend.
J. Mack Willis, Sr.
February 19, 2023
Prayers for the family of Tommy Dortch. Congrats my friend on a life well lived at every level. What TD accomplished seems the result of 100 years of energy packed into a 72 year span. It explodes into a burst of goodness for many. Job well done!!
Glenda Carter
February 19, 2023
My deepest sympathies are extended to Tommy´s family. He was a great man and will be sorely missed. May he rest in eternal peace.
Staci Bush
February 18, 2023
"Also, I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me." Isaiah 6:8
My sincerest condolences are extended to The Dortch Family during this time of bereavement. -Ms. Staci Bush
Jim Burch
February 18, 2023
My condolences to the family. I knew of him while in high school but got to know him at FVSU
John J. Funny, City Councilman - City of Brookhaven, GA and Past National P
February 18, 2023
My thoughts and prayers are with the Dortch Family as we remember the life and legacy of Mr. Thomas (Tommy) W. Dortch, Jr. We, small business owners, graduates of HBCUs, members of 100 Black Men, etc., and many more will be forever indebted for Tommy's many contributions in so many different ways. We all love you Tommy, but God Loves you BEST. Rest In Peace.
Armenious Patterson Jr
February 18, 2023
RIP Thomas, we appreciate all you gave to us!
Peace
Armenious Patterson, Jr
Daniel Meachum
February 18, 2023
Tommy:
I am so very heartbroken to know you are not here to say "MEACH what´s up."
Thank you for your eternal kindness and friendship. I will forever miss your smile and laugh. Rest in peace and I will see you again.
Much love.
Anna Massey
February 18, 2023
My sincere condolences on the loss of such a pillar in our community. May the "angels sing thee to thy rest"
Candy Jackson-Bibbs
February 18, 2023
Such a loss. I remember meeting Mr. Dortch and his presence along could move a crowd to join him in making things better for our youth. Job well done sir, may your soul be at rest. My sincere condolences to your family.
Ken Jones
February 17, 2023
I am proud to have had the honor of working with Tommy in Senator Nunn´s office many years ago. He was a prince of man and friend. You gave the world so much, Tommy. Rest peacefully my friend.
Karen D. Roberts
February 17, 2023
I'm truly saddened to hear of Tommy Dortch, Jr.'s passing. To me, he was a larger than life individual, a real mover and shaker in the city of Atlanta, and beyond. One who was always passionate about helping our communities to thrive and seeing the enormous potential in our youth. He interacted with dignitaries, celebrities, and the like, but always seemed to have time to talk with the "everyday folk". In recalling the 21 years I worked for 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc. and being able to get to know Tommy and see first hand all the good works and deeds he accomplished, the experience is one I will hold in the highest regard. I will always, always have a great deal of respect for Tommy and his legacy. I offer my heartfelt sympathy to his wife, Carole, their children and the entire Dortch family. Rest in peace my good friend; the work you did will truly speak volumes for you.
Debra Hines Brown
February 17, 2023
Sharing my sincerest condolences on the passing of a true Atlanta Icon prayers for the Dortch Family. A memory immediately comes to mind, several years ago I ran into Tommy on the train between the concourses at Atlanta- Hartsfield with my then 7 and 4 year old daughters (now 23 & 20); after he mentioned that he was headed to Vermont... they immediately started peppering him with questions as to why he was going to Vermont on and on... he patiently answered each query while sharing the importance of being involved in the community... They remembered his words.
ROBERT MOSBY
February 17, 2023
Brother Dortch,
My sincere condolences to your family as you leave your earthly journey. On occasion you shared many stories and business successes with me and I thank you. You will be missed my brother.
Fraternally,
Robert Mosby, Jr.
Omega Psi Phi
Tuskegee University
Harriette Watkins
February 17, 2023
Tommy was passionate about life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for himself and others - he did all 3 well!! Rest well...
Dr. Alice White Bussey, Co Owner, Bussey Florist
February 17, 2023
Carole and Family,
You are in my prayers. I worked very closely for over 40 years with Tommy
during his three terms as the Chairman of the Atlanta Business League, when I served as the First Female President of the Atlanta Business League,
and in his role as the President of the 100 Black Men of America. I helped him with creating public policy as the State Director for Senator Sam Nunn.
I will truly miss him.
Dr. Alice White Bussey
Co Owner, Bussey Florist
Tommy Phillips III
February 17, 2023
My deepest condolences to the family and many friends & colleagues of our Brother, Tommy Dortch. He created a lasting environment for Men to be able to mentor other Men. Men who could then mentor young men who would share in their life experiences. He has help pass down decades of wisdom to young men still trying to find their way in this world with the creation of the many chapters of 100 Black Men. Tommy has left a remarkable legacy around the United States.
Tommy Phillips, III
Past President 100 Black Men South Metro -1994-1996
Calvin M Green
February 17, 2023
My prayers are with the family at this very difficult time. Thomas was a good man, always offering a helping hand to everyone around him. He will be missed greatly.
Patrice H. Adams
February 17, 2023
We send our deepest condolences to Carole Dortch and the entire family. Tommy will surely be missed. His legacy of diversity and equity will live on. God bless you and comfort you now and always.
Chief Tom Hutchinson
Patrice H. Adams
David M. Walker, Esq.
February 17, 2023
My man
Jim Burch
February 17, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jim Burch
Vickie Ashley-Davis
February 16, 2023
My deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Mr. Thomas Dortch Jr. Tommy was an extraordinary man, and the epitome of a great leader. Even as I'm feeling sad, I'm honored to remember one of the best people I ever met. Take your rest, you will forever be remembered and your remarkable legacy will live on!
Gregory Arthur
February 16, 2023
My condolences to the family of Tommy. Toccoa, Ga. Born and raised Prayers for the Whitman Street School classmates and teammates. Praying also for the Jackson family.
Chantelle D. Jones
February 16, 2023
We celebrate the life and legacy of a trailblazer, influencer. I am grateful to have worked for Mr. Dortch 1996-1998., Condolences to the family and close friends. Thank You Mr. Dortch! Chantelle D. Jones
Susan Dean
February 16, 2023
My sincere condolences to the Dortch family.
Sage Owens
February 16, 2023
Prayers & Heartfelt condolences go out to the entire family. Tommy has always been a true gem and has provided great words of wisdom and inspiration for me as well as my entire family. Tommy, has always provided priceless moments and memories as an inspirational mentor. Rest in Heavenly Peace!!
Kevin Kitchen
February 16, 2023
A wonderful man. Mentor and leader to many people in the Atlanta area. May the Lord Jesus Christ be with his family during this time.
Doreen Taylor
February 16, 2023
Awesome person, he will be missed. Loved his spirit of giving n helping others.
Rosa M Crowley
February 16, 2023
My Brother my friend has entered into his eternal rest after his services his on earth and in the Atlanta community & the State of Georgia.
I met him at Jefferson Davis Dinner where he & I was seated together representing Young Democrats of Georgia. Since that time we worked with the National l Council of Business (NAB), Atlanta Business League. NAACP and did as needed work for him while he served as Aide to Senator Sam Nunn.
A true friend, hard & dedicated leader.
I send my condolences to his Family. You served well now Rest Sweetly in the Arms of the Lord.
Paul Williams, Jr.
February 16, 2023
I send my condolences to the family. Tommy was an inspirational leader who also actually got things done. He will be greatly missed by the 100 Black Men Family and by so many others.
Santura Pegram
February 16, 2023
Like numerous other people, I'm saddened to learn about the passing of Mr. Dortch, but genuinely impressed by the "countless" lives he impacted throughout his lifetime. Whether it was at a college, NBA or NFL game, high-level business events, City Hall or the halls of a State Capitol Building, you could almost anticipate bumping into Tommy Dortch Jr. on any given day. The man was the epitome of what it means to be 'polished!' It takes a rare, unique individual who can not only find his/her way into exclusive rooms/settings, earn respect of practically everyone in attendance, and a seat at tables of decision-making most other people find impossible to access, but he was definitely one such individual. He seemingly left a positive, undeniable impression upon everyone he met. More importantly, he exemplified what most people have forgotten or chosen to ignore, which is to use your life to positively impact those of other people less fortunate and create meaningful opportunities for them to succeed. Prayers and Blessings to each one of his family members and closest friends.
Daryll Griffin
February 16, 2023
Carole, as the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. May you find comfort in the many warm memories you have of him. Tommy is taking his well-deserved rest in Paradise with the Angels.
I was honored to work with Tommy throughout his three terms on the ABL Board of Directors. He gave his all for this city, for small businesses, for entrepreneurs, for students, for all. He will be missed.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Daryll, Mike and Michael Griffin
Charle Graves
February 16, 2023
As executive director of the Georgia Democratic Party I had the honor and privilege of working side by side with Tommy for several years. He was more than a colleague; he was my friend for whom I had great respect. He was a true gentleman and a leader beyond his age and time. Charles Graves
Greg Pridgeon
February 16, 2023
Tommy was a friend, fraternity brother, inspiration and tremendous asset to Atlanta's trajectory. Fair well my brother.
I will miss you.
COL(Ret) Ronald M. Joe
February 16, 2023
A gifted leader who served as an sterling example for so many members and mentees of 100 BMOA and FAMU's Booster and Organization.
Tamareeshi Geffrard
February 16, 2023
Mr. Thomas Dortch was a humble giant. He treated everyone in his presence with the grace of an old friend and the dignity of a statesmen. He was a thought leader, well respected, and well loved. He was such a pleasure to work with. He will be sorely missed. My prayers and sincerest condolences to the Dortch family.
Doug Tasse
February 15, 2023
I can't remember how long ago, but I helped Mr.Dortch
with servicing his car. He was new to the 100 Blackmen
Organization and he truly believed in it. I was shocked of his passing, such a dear, friendly, enthusiastic gentleman. Rest in peace, your spirit will live on.
Phil Andrews
February 15, 2023
My prayers and condolences go out to the family!
Phil Andrews
Carl Semien
February 15, 2023
Tommy was a great friend of my sister, Emily Semien and Leonard Smith. He was my first neighbor in Spring Park when we move in 1993. He always lit up a room and everyone knew him. He was very accessible for a man of his statue and influence. The last time I saw him was in September at his wine tasting. My sister Emily was a part of his wine club and had invited me. I had always heard about his wine cellar but had never seen it. His wife was so kind to give me a tour. I remember taking a picture with him before I left. He invited to go on their wine tour in San Francisco. He was an humble giant in our community. We have lost a great man , husband, and father. I pray for his family and love ones.
Kwanza Hall
February 15, 2023
Condolences and prayers for the family.
Bobby L. Fuse, Jr.; Americus, Georgia
February 15, 2023
Bro. Thomas Dortch was a mentor and friend from college days. I mourn his passing as many of us will do.
We have Hope.
May his children and family be comforted by the thousand of memories and sound lessons he has left to us.
Deric C. Feacher
February 15, 2023
Rest well Frat. God has called you to rest until we all shall crown him King.
Jacqueline Terry-Miles
February 15, 2023
My Deepest Condolences to the family. He was an upper class man when I got to know him my freshman year at FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY. I knew then he was destined for greatness. He was a very humble individual, a leader. As students he organized a group of us, students, to go out into the surrounding communities in Fort Valley, Ga. to help the residents there get registered to vote.He helped get the ball rolling! He didn’t stop, he continued his journey in helping the people of Georgia. He will be missed but surely not forgotten
Lisa Marie Glover
February 15, 2023
I just found out and am extremely saddened. Although your earthly assignment has ended your legacy remains.
I send prayers of comfort and strength to your family, lots of love and BIG HUGS.
Thank you for all you were and did for mankind. It matters that you lived!!!
Delores Turner
February 15, 2023
This is a great loss to Atlanta and Atlanta's young men. Sincere condolences to his family'
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