William "Bill" Dorsey

Family and Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of his Life Gathering on Saturday, June 14, 2025, 11:00am, at Tiki Restaurant in Gautier. 

William Brenard “Big Bill” Dorsey

Born - March 23, 1956 Baton Rouge, LA

Died - April 25, 2025 Gautier, MS

Bill Dorsey was a unique person, a real entrepreneur from a young age.  His early efforts included roasting and selling peanuts in the neighborhood, lawn services, and selling soft drinks at the Pascagoula High School Football games.  These earliest skills would be used in his adult life.   He was a 1974 graduate of Pascagoula High School. 

In the 1970’s, Bill and his dad operated a bar in Pascagoula, under the name of Dub’s Pub.  Bill was the chief bartender, dishwasher, bouncer and host.  The business did well  but was later closed when Bill began his sales career selling industrial tools and equipment.  This ultimately had Bill return to Baton Rouge for a period of several years.  The skills he learned as a young man were able to be transferred to his professional sales life.   Additionally, Bill was a stand up comedian, entertaining on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.  His larger than life persona was evident in his stand up routines. 

An avid dog lover, Bill’s dogs were his family.   Sampson and Spartacus were two of his favorites.  He had a vanity plate “Sparky”  for his car in honor of Spartacus.  The dogs loved nothing better than riding in the front seat of the car with Bill driving.  He taught the dogs how to spell, often talking to the dogs, do you want to G O?  Spelling it out which alerted them to a drive that was soon coming. 

He is survived by three brothers and their spouses Brent (Pluma) , Bob (Carol) and David (Nicole) as well as several nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his parents William B and Jane Woodson Dorsey.

You may send condolences to his family or share a memory of him on the Tribute Wall. 

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