FRANKLIN, Ky. — Donald Edward Dortch, 86, of Franklin, passed away Dec. 30, 2025. He was born Sept. 21, 1939 to the late Glenn and Kathryn Johnson Dortch.
Donnie was a musician. He wrote, sang and played music with Tess Sharp. He sang and emceed “Gospel on the River” and sang with Sacred Heart. He wrote and played music with Ronnie McDowell. He was an Air Force Veteran.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Susan Lynn Dortch, and his brother, Kerry Dortch.
Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Rosie Rister; grandchildren, Kristina Miller (Cody), Samantha Pedigo (Tommy), Victoria Waller, Jesse Riser; two great-grandchildren, Elliott and Everly and one on the way; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Services will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 3, at Bevil Bros. Funeral Home in Beaver Dam. Friends may visit with the family from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery in Hartford.
Online messages of condolence may be sent to bevilbrosfuneralhomes.com.