In Loving Memory of Wallace Dorning

Wallace Dorning, 85, of Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, August 16, 2026.

Wallace was born on September 6, 1940, in Harvest, Alabama, to Roy Lee and Ruth Blankenship Dorning. He was raised in Harvest, where he graduated from the last class of Monrovia School in 1958 before attending college and beginning a life of service to his community. Wallace served the City of Huntsville as a Huntsville City Police Officer, City Clerk, and Head Magistrate, dedicating many years to the people and community he so proudly called home.

Wallace’s commitment to public service extended well beyond his official duties. During his years of service to the City of Huntsville, he was deeply involved in community and traffic safety initiatives, including helping establish Huntsville’s Safety City at Brahan Spring Park. The program provided generations of elementary school children with hands-on lessons in traffic, bicycle, pedestrian, bus, and fire safety. Wallace took great pride in helping create programs that protected and educated the community’s children, leaving a lasting legacy of service that continues to be remembered by those who benefited from his work. He was also deeply connected to the farming and cattle communities of Harvest as well as served on the Harvest-Monrovia Water Board and served various board positions as well as chairman for more than 40 years at Rocket City Federal Credit Union.

A man of steadfast faith, Wallace was a devoted member of Whitesburg Baptist Church. His faith was a guiding force in his life, and he remained unwavering in his beliefs until the very end. He was also active in his homeowners association and continued to find meaningful ways to serve and contribute to his community.

Wallace had a deep appreciation for the many things that brought him joy. He was a devoted fan of the Indianapolis 500 and UAH basketball, and he held a special place in his heart for the world of NASCAR. He proudly served as a NASCAR official and supported both Huntsville and Nashville Speedways, combining his love of racing with his lifelong commitment to his community. He also cherished the companionship of his beloved dogs, Emma Grace and Jackson. Above all, Wallace treasured his family and the time he shared with those he loved.

Wallace is survived by his beloved wife, Margie M. Dorning; daughter, Cindy Dorning Shields (Kevin); son, Mitchell Daryl Dorning (Elizabeth); daughter-in-law, Jan Daly Dorning; five grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Lee and Ruth Blankenship Dorning, and his son, Blake Lee Dorning.

The family will receive friends and loved ones at Berryhill Funeral Home on Thursday, August 20, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. A funeral service will follow immediately in the chapel at Berryhill. Burial service will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery.

Wallace leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of faith, service, and love that will live on through his family, friends, and the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Matthew 11:28 (KJV)