Douglas H. "Doug" Dority Jr.

Douglas H. "Doug" Dority Jr., of McKinney, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, at the age of 86. He was born on December 9, 1938, in Marion, Virginia, to Douglas Hope Dority and Lucy (Johnson) Dority. A graduate of Marion Senior High School, Doug continued his education at Roanoke College, laying the foundation for a life marked by leadership, purpose, and unwavering commitment to others.

A prominent and respected figure in the American labor movement, Doug devoted 43 years to the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), its members, and working families across the country. He began his career as a field organizer, leading major campaigns throughout the United States and Canada and bringing a strong grassroots spirit to every assignment.

After retiring from the UFCW, Doug continued his service to others through his leadership at America's Agenda, where he worked to advance national health-care reform. He remained deeply committed to uniting labor unions, businesses, health-care providers, and policymakers around bold, practical solutions to ensure affordable, high-quality health care for all Americans.

Doug enjoyed a wonderful 20-year retirement alongside the love of his life, his wife of 25 years, Brenda. Together they made beautiful memories in Florida, Colorado, and eventually Texas-bringing joy and laughter everywhere they went. Their partnership brightened the lives of all those fortunate enough to be around them.

Doug will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be missed dearly by all who loved him. As we reflect on his life, we honor not only his extraordinary achievements but also the kindness, generosity, and the quiet strength that defined him. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he influenced and the love he shared with his family and friends.

Doug is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda Dority of McKinney, Texas; his sister Barbara Dority of Roanoke, Virginia and his children, Lynn Young of Fort Worth, Texas, Sheri Gaber and husband Joe of Weatherford, Texas, Traci Shanklin and husband Tom of Mooresville, North Carolina, Brooke Dority of Dallas, Texas, Matt Dority of Encino, California, Tony Pyle and wife Celie of Kemp, Texas, Bart Pyle and wife Sandy of Allen, Texas. Doug is also survived by 9 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and numerous other loving family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A private gathering honoring Doug's life will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025. A Celebration of Life will be held in early 2026, with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations to the North Texas Food Bank, a charity close to Doug's heart and one he supported faithfully over many years.