Steiner F. Dorsey, Sr. was born in Harford County, Maryland to Ethel and Albert Dorsey. He was born on December 26, 1925, and was always considered this family’s special Christmas gift. Steiner, 94, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2020.

Steiner was raised in humble beginnings and lost both parents at a relatively young age but he persevered in life under the direction and guidance of his Nana, Della Webster. After graduation from The Negro School of Bel Air, MD, he was drafted into the Navy during WW2 . After having served in combat, he earned the following medals: The American Theater Campaign Medal, The Pacific Campaign Medal, and The Medal of Valor.

After the military, he married Sallie E. Dorsey and the union produced several children. He later married Emma A. Dorsey and produced several more children.

He was a diligent and hard-working father for his family and was always there to lend himself to any situation. As a young man, he was employed by the U.S. Government at Edgewood Arsenal and Aberdeen Proving Ground while still serving in The Naval Reserve in addition to driving a taxicab for Diamond Cab Co. He was a procurement officer at both Aberdeen Proving Ground and the Naval Reserve, often feeling the wrath of racism in a desegregated military. He retired from the Navy Reserves as a Chief Petty Officer and he also  retired as well from civilian employment at Aberdeen Proving Ground. He was recently honored and awarded several citations from the Harford County Government and The Maryland General Assembly for his service to his country as a WWII veteran.

The family was so proud to see him in his white uniform during the National Holiday parades with that particular stride in which  everyone knew it was him, even from a distance, all the while marching in formation; he looked so handsome and honorable. We would all look forward to his return from his 2-week tour of duty with the Naval Reserves because he always brought home such wonderful gifts.

Steiner had several gifts, he was, at one point, the neighborhood tailor; and known as having one of the best baseball arms in his early days - some say he would have been an Major Baseball League (MBL) pitcher. He was also a counselor to many, a friend, and teacher and he spent much of his time nurturing and teaching his children the knowledge of his learning. But mostly telling his children and neighborhood African American kids to never allow anyone or anything hold them down and to always give whatever we were doing to give our best, because “nothing beats a failure but an honest try.”

The lighter side of Steiner included bowling and he proudly boasted about his winning team and coaching his minor sons in the local baseball leagues. Family games have always been his mainstay and as an adults that didn’t change. He loved to play dominoes for hours and pinochle for days. He would always proclaim to be the “Master Builder” of any game he might be playing. (he also loved corny jokes). Steiner was also good with his hands and one would often see him visiting car salvaging businesses looking for just the right part. He also loved listening to jazz music and was also a Mason in good and honorable standing. 

So much will be missed about Steiner. Steiner was a very active and dedicated member at Union Bethel A.M.E Church and was an avid member of many ministries such as the senior choir, usher board, and Trustee Board. He loved serving his church very much and he loved helping people.

His memory will be cherished and kept alive by his wife, Emma (Peggy), of over 50 years, and his many children: Sherley Jacobs, Cornell Dorsey, Aaron Dorsey, Eric Dorsey, Gary Louis Carter, Larry Howard, Denise Givens, Kenny Washington, Sabra Dorsey Robinson, Wendora Dorsey, God-daughter Greer Dorsey and his son in spirit, Chris Mack.

He is survived by one sister, Octavia Green. He has a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces, great nieces, nephews, great nephews. He is preceded in death by his first wife; Sallie Dorsey, two sons; Clinton F Dorsey and Steiner F Dorsey, Jr, (aka Butch); his siblings Marion Dorsey, Iva Brooks and Lawrence Dorsey.

We’re sure Steiner would like to let you know that his work here is done. He received a call, a sort of an offer you can’t refuse, for an appointment from which he will not be returning. This assignment comes with a huge sign-on bonus, a reunion with family and friends he has not seen in a very long time.

We will always carry his memory in our hearts.

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The family would like to acknowledge the following individuals from Heartlanf Hospice for assisting with the caregiving of Steiner Dorsey: Keeana Walker, Nicole Johnson, Jasmine Oliver and Magalie (Maggie) Pierre

The Dorsey family also wishes to acknowledge all of those who gave/sent their condolences, cards, and gifts of kindness. We greatly appreciate them and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. There’s no doubt that our father would have been proud of your kindness. Thank you!

~The Dorsey Family

Steiner Frederick Dorsey
12/26/1925 - 5/19/2020