Mark Wayne Dollar

Mark Wayne Dollar, 67, went to his home in heaven and into the arms of Jesus on December 22, 2025. There to greet him were his parents, Raymond and Jeanette, his grandparents, Nanny and Papa Phinazee, and his son Waylon. He was also preceded in death by many beloved aunts, uncles, and other family members.

Like his father before him, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He grew up moving with his parents and siblings to many places around the country when he was young, and there were many stories and happy memories from their time in Alaska together. From early on he had a knack for computers and technology. He was truly one of the most unbelievably intelligent and gifted people that you could hope to meet, and "Mark-brain" was a real thing; always interesting, always full of relevant and often off-beat information. He was a phenomenal artist and craftsman who had many talents including drawing, painting, writing, woodcraft, playing the guitar, and singing. Those that knew him well knew that the sound of his voice was of unmatchable beauty. He loved all kinds of music, including classic rock, and blasting it loudly. Always a lover of a plain double cheeseburger and a root beer, a fully committed hater of mayo, and a sushi, hot sake, and wasabi aficionado, he was a huge fan of excellent cuisine. In his younger days he could ride a unicycle and rumor has it, he rode it all over Fort Valley. In his later years he enjoyed relaxing time at the beach with his family, meeting no strangers and making friends along the way.

Mark's greatest inspiration was his mother, who he considered an angel on earth. He admired her deeply and strived to follow her example throughout his life. Like her, he believed in the beauty of love, peace, and finding happiness in all circumstances. Strong like his mother, his mindset and values carried him through life's greatest challenges, including overcoming his stroke with quiet strength and determination. He was soft spoken and gentle, rarely raising his voice, always willing to be a listening ear. He lived with an open-door philosophy, by welcoming others through his God-given gifts of hospitality, acceptance, warmth, and generosity.

Those that knew Mark well know that the stroke he suffered from many years ago would change his life forever; and while the stroke changed many things about him, nothing will remove the precious memories from those of us that hold them as we all remember how amazing he was throughout his life before his health challenges. Mark was a loving father, son, brother, husband, and a friend to everyone that he met. He was able to make people feel seen, heard, and valued. His presence brought peace to those around him. His legacy of love and living in the moment will remain in the hearts of all those who were blessed to know him.

Mark is survived by his daughter, Brandi (David) Griffith, his grandson Jackson, his siblings, Tony, Joni, and Beth, his nieces, and nephews – Gina, Angela, Brian, Lindsay, Raymond, Bella, and Willa, and many great nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his extended family - Tamra, Tyler, Savannah, Austin, Aubrey, Paula, and Paige. He leaves behind many loving friends and acquaintances that he knew throughout the years.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Rooks Funeral Home, 109 West White Road in Byron, with visitation starting at noon and a memorial service at 1:00 PM, officiated by Rev. Clinton Stephens. Much like Mark, this gathering will be casual and laid back, and for anyone able to attend we encourage you to come as you are and to share happy memories of him. We hope this will be a time where great stories will be told so that his memory will continue to live on.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that anyone who wishes may donate to the charitable organization of their choice in honor and memory of Mark. Rooks Funerral Home in Byron is in charge of arrangements.