James Melford Dorton

James Melford Dorton obituary, Columbus, OH

James Melford Dorton

James Dorton Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Caliman Funeral Services - Columbus on Nov. 26, 2025.
James Dorton who passed from this life at age 86, 11/20/2025.
Preceded in death by father Milford Dorton, mother Mary Waide, son Anthony Dorton (Yvettes) and granddaughter Kayle Cherry.
He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Sandra Dorton. Daughters: Vanessa Jones, Alesia Davis (Larry), Veronica Smith (Archie), Alexis Walker, Alyse Dorton (Connor McMahon). Sons: Vance Dorton and Ian Cunningham (Nyree). Sister: Beverly Walker. Nephew: Dennis Walker (Patty). Brother-in-Law: Beasley Cunningham. Niece: Jasmin Cunningham. Many Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren. Daughter in love: Marquetta Cunningham. A host of other relatives and friends.
James retired from the Department of Youth Services after 30 years of service and from Columbus Public Schools after 10 years of service.
James was also a member of the Catawba Tribe of Carrs Run.
James was a Veteran of the Air Force and the Army Reserve. In his lifetime James had several hobbies: Anything Snoopy, photography, researching African American Wild West Heros, Researching African American Military History including The Tuskegee Airmen and also genealogy. James was previously Secretary and Treasurer for the Hilltop Cowboys Little League Football Organization.
(For the viewing feel free to wear a Snoopy T shirt, sweatshirt or sweater to the viewing. A few will be available at the viewing)
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of JAMES, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign James Dorton's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

1 Entry

Terri Webster

December 1, 2025

Please accept my condolences Sandy, family friends. I am deeply sorry for the loss of your husband, father, grandfather and close friend. May you find strength and support in the days ahead, may his love and memories forever fill your heart..Terri Webster

Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results

Caliman Funeral Services - Columbus

3700 Refugee Road, Columbus, OH 43232

Make a Donation
in James Dorton's name

How to support James's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor James Dorton's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James Dorton's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?