John Dossey

John Nealy Dossey, 92 of Nashville, passed away Monday, February 21, 2022. Born April 13, 1929 in Fountain Run, Kentucky, John was the son of the late John M. Dossey and Gertie Jones Dossey. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Wilbur Dossey; his sister, Pauline Goad; and an infant child, Danny Lee Dossey. John grew up on the family farm in KY where he developed his “green thumb” and love of the farming life, although he was drawn to getting out into the wider world. He received his BS Degree from Western Kentucky University. John served with the USAF during the Korean War era and was stationed in Alaska for most of his service time. As a “loadmaster” in the Air Force, John was afforded the opportunity to travel extensively. After his discharge from the Air Force, John began his career in education, married and started his family. He taught at Maplewood High School in Nashville for 34 years. He spent the bulk of his time at Maplewood as head of the Social Studies Department and was also a devoted speech and drama team coach. John was active in debate competitions and brought many of “his kids” to both regional and national competitions. He attained the Double Diamond designation from the National Forensics League for his coaching accomplishments and devotion. Towards the end of his career, he was honored with the distinction of being named a Faulkner Fellow from the University Of Mississippi. In the area of drama, he produced and directed countless plays at Maplewood High. He also filled in as Stage Manager at the former Theater Nashville over the years. He retired for 6 months and then re-entered the field of education as an instructor at the former Draughons Jr. College for 15 years. He is survived by his wife, Juanita Brooks Dossey; two sons, John N. Dossey, Jr. and Paschal Mark Dossey; his daughter, Melissa Dossey; 5 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. A celebration of John’s life will be held Monday, February 28th at 12 noon at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home, Goodlettsville, TN followed by interment at Forest Lawn Cemetery. An hour of visitation from 11 AM until 12 noon will precede the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org