JOHN DOCKREY

JOHN DOCKREY ALEXANDRIA, IN John A. Dockrey, 82, entered peace and rest from the Alexandria Health and Rehabilitation Center on Friday, October 6, 2023, following an extended illness. John was born on July 18, 1941, in Alexandria to Lonnie and Irene (Key) Dockrey and has lived here all his lifetime. He was a graduate of Alexandria High School-Class of 1959. John A. Dockrey, an unforgettable figure with a Santa Claus-like charm, passed away at 82, leaving a rich legacy of love and laughter. Known for his infectious 'Dockrey humor' and ceaseless pranks, he brightened every room he entered. With a philosophy that treated everyone like family, John journeyed through life with unparalleled zest, often setting off on trips and adventures with little more than a moment's notice. John's resilience became evident early on. After the loss of his father, he dove into work while still navigating high school. With no formal education in the field, he became a self-made expert in merchandising produce, achieving national acclaim. John's career in produce was evidenced at Cox's Supermarket from 1954 to 1971 and Pay Less Supermarkets from 1971 to 2001 for a total of 47 years in his career span. John was a longtime and active member of the St. Mary Parish in Alexandria. However, his professional accomplishments paled in comparison to his deep love for family. He married Linda Libler shortly after high school and had three children. Their story took a tragic turn after a severe accident in which Linda was involved. He was blessed to find love again and went on to spend 37 joyous years with his wife, Marcella. He embraced the role of a doting father to their six children, but their 17 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren were the apple of John's eye, and he delighted in their achievements. He cherished playful moments with them, often challenging them to guess the amount of money he had in hand, awarding the entire sum for an accurate guess. John never missed an opportunity for a hug and a kiss. In his golden years, John reveled in the simple joys of lifewhether it was card games, fishing trips, having s'mores with his grandkids around a bonfire, or hosting large holiday gatherings. As we remember John, it's evident that few embraced life as he did. His spirit, boundless joy, and humor will forever inspire those who knew him. Rest in peace, John Dockrey. Your legacy lives on in the memories and laughter you've left behind. Survivors: Wife-Marcella M. (Swift) Dockrey-married in 1986, 2 Daughters-Cheri (Warren) Brown and Nancy (Mark) Sherfick all of Alexandria, Son-John Paul (Lisa) Dockrey of Alexandria, Stepdaughters-Enva Sue Powers of Alexandria, Tabatha "Tabby" (Sam) Brown of Mooresville, 17 Grandchildren, 27 Great-Grandchildren, 2 Sisters-Patricia Capps of North Carolina, Cynthia (Thomas) Barricklow of Alexandria, 2 Sisters-In-Law-Margaret Davis of Elwood, Freda Dockrey of Alexandria, Several nieces and nephews, Special feathered friend - "Jake" the parrot. John was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife-Linda Libler Dockrey, brothers-David Dockrey and Phil Dockrey, sister Linda (Dockrey) Hoerling, step-son-Leonard Little, granddaughter-Lindsay Powers, Sister-in-law-Merl Harris. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10 am on October 12, 2023, in the Church of St. Mary, 820 West Madison Street, Alexandria with Father Matthew Jakupco as Celebrant. Interment will follow in Park Cemetery at Fairmount. The Dockrey family will receive friends from 5 pm to 8 pm Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at the Owens Funeral Home, 412 North Harrison Street, Alexandria. A very informal time of sharing memories of John will take place at 7:30 Wednesday to close the visitation hours at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Mary's School, 820 West Madison Street, Alexandria, IN 46001 or envelopes will be available at the services. Online condolences: www.owensmemorialservices.com