Hugh James Dorrian

Hugh James Dorrian, 90, was called to Heaven by Jesus on February 6, 2026, surrounded by his children and their great love for him.

Hugh was the seventh of eight children of Irish immigrant parents, Hugh Joseph Dorrian and Anna Flaherty. Born in Wheeling, WV, he grew up in Columbus's Franklinton neighborhood, graduating from Holy Family Grade School and St. Charles Preparatory High School. During those years, Hugh worked at Dorrian's Market at the corner of St. Clair and Leonard Avenues, learning lessons from his father including to never let a customer leave hungry, even if they couldn't afford to pay.

Hugh served in the United States Army from 1954-1956 in Nuremberg, Germany. In 1959, he graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. He earned his CPA license and began his career at Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co.

In 1964, Hugh married Janice Mary Flynn of Yonkers, New York. Together they devoted themselves to their four children, Julia, Margaret, Mary and Hugh Joseph. They built their home alongside many wonderful families, whose friendships continue through the generations. What a gift to their kids! Hugh and Janice were founding parishioners of St. Timothy Catholic Church. His children were Hugh's greatest joy. And he delighted in each of his 10 grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Papa."

Hugh's older brother, Michael, introduced him to public service and the Franklin County Democratic Party. In 1966, Hugh was asked to serve as the Columbus City Treasurer. Hugh agreed only after Mayor M.E. Sensenbrenner exhorted him "Dorrian, when you are called to serve, you serve!" In 1969, Hugh was appointed City Auditor, Columbus' chief accountant and chief fiscal officer. He was elected and re-elected to the position in twelve consecutive elections. He unsuccessfully ran in the 1975 Mayoral primary, but after that defeat, continued to work in the interest of the people of Columbus with mayors, council members and city attorneys from both sides of the aisle. He served the City of Columbus for 52 years.

Hugh loved Columbus and her people. He was proud to work alongside the employees of the Office of the City Auditor and all city employees. At City Hall, he was often referred to as "Mr. Dorrian."He was recognized throughout his career as a public servant of great integrity. Hugh received numerous awards, including the Ethics in Government and Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Ohio Government Finance Officers Association, and the Outstanding Local Public Service Award from The Ohio State University John Glenn School of Public Affairs, to name just a few. In 2012, Hugh was inducted into the City of Columbus Hall of Fame, and the City dedicated Dorrian Green park in Franklinton in his honor in 2018. In spite of the accolades, most days, at the lunch hour, he could be found at Tommy's Diner counter, sitting with neighborhood friends and city leaders alike – enjoying his chicken noodle soup.

Hugh served the Diocese of Columbus under three bishops on the Finance and Investment Committees and received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (for the Church and the Pope) medal from Pope John Paul II in 1992. For 22 years, he taught Governmental and Non-Profit Accounting at the John Glenn School of Public Affairs. The Shamrock Club of Columbus named him Irishman of the Year in 1973.

Hugh's love for family, public service to his city, and commitment to his Church were all inspired by his faith in God.

Hugh is survived by his children Julia (David Robinson) Dorrian, Margaret Lombardo, Mary (Dennis) Jeffrey and Hugh Joseph "Joe" (PoYee) Dorrian; grandchildren Joe (Julie Hancock), Eileen and Thomas Jeffrey; Patrick, Grace, Bridget and Maggie Lombardo; Hugh Robinson; Catherine and Joseph Dorrian; sister Mary Pulsinelli; brother-in-law Pat Flynn; and many dear nieces and nephews who call him "Uncle Hughie." He is predeceased by his beloved wife Janice; his parents; siblings Julia Hughes, Sister Mary Macrina R.S.M. "Peg" Dorrian, Michael, Nora, Margory "Marge" Fadley and John; brothers-in-law Frank Pulsinelli and Fire Chief Raymond "Ray" Fadley, sister-in-law Mary Martha; nieces Gig Fadley and Haley Pulsinelli, as well as Flynn Family in-laws whom he respected very much; and his wonderful son-in-law Vaughn Lombardo. Hugh's family is grateful to his friends and compassionate caregivers in assisted living and from hospice.

Visitation will be 3:00-8:00 p.m., Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Egan-Ryan Funeral Home Northwest Chapel, 4661 Kenny Road. Prayer service at 3:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, February 13, 2026 at 10:30 a.m., St. Timothy Catholic Church, 1088 Thomas Lane. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Holy Family Soup Kitchen, c/o Holy Family Catholic Church.