Kermit Edward Dooley

Kermit Edward Dooley, 83, of Gardendale passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023 at his residence. He was born April 26, 1940. Kermit E. Dooley, a revered figure in Gardendale, Alabama, led a life marked by numerous accolades and contributions to his community. A graduate of Mortimer Jordan High School, where he met and later married his high school sweetheart, fostering a deep connection to his roots. Throughout his life, he demonstrated an unwavering dedication to Gardendale, serving as a fireman and police officer in his early years. Kermit's commitment extended to the preservation of local history, evident in his founding of the Gardendale Historical Museum and the Gardendale Historical Society. He was twice named Citizen of the Year in Gardendale, he also played a pivotal role in securing Historical Markers for Stouts Road within the State of Alabama. Kermit Dooley's influence reached beyond his community as the Regional Vice President of the Cemetery Preservation Association of Alabama, focusing on Jefferson County. His expertise in genealogy and history further enriched the understanding of local and state heritage. Until his passing, Kermit continued to lead the Gardendale Historical Society as its president, leaving an enduring legacy of civic pride and historical preservation. The Gardendale Historical Museum, a testament to his vision, was later named the Kermit E Dooley Historical Museum in honor of his remarkable contributions. Kermit was also a devoted family man whose life was defined by an unwavering passion for his loved ones. Kermit shared a lifetime of love and companionship with his high school sweetheart Joyce. Together, they built a family grounded in resilience and warmth. Kermit took immense pride in his sons, Troy and Shaun, instilling in them the values of integrity and community service that he held dear. As a doting grandfather and known to family as “Poppy”, he cherished the laughter and joy brought by his grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will endure through generations. The arrival of great-grandchildren added an extra layer of happiness to his life, symbolizing the continuation of a legacy rooted in love and family bonds. Kermit's profound commitment to his family resonates as a testament to his enduring spirit and the enduring impact he leaves on those fortunate enough to be part of his close-knit circle. He is survived by his son, James Troy Dooley (Kathy); grandchildren, April Dooley, Tyler Dooley (Katelyn), Breanna White (Jonathan), Cassidy Dooley, Talon Stocks (Ashley Walker), Mikah Dooley, Mackenzie Gilkey (Erick) and Mackayla Dooley; great grandchildren, Lola Dooley, Lucy Dooley, Roman Dooley, Brynleigh White, Amelia White, Malice Dooley, Clementine Gilkey and Holden Fulgham and special granddog, Opal. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harley Troy Dooley and Flossie Dooley; wife, Joyce Dooley; son, Shaun Dooley and brother, Ronald Dooley. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at 2pm at Gardendale Heritage Funeral Home; Jonathan White officiating; burial will follow in Oakwood Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 12pm to 2pm. Because of Kermit’s passion for preserving the history of Gardendale in lieu of flowers you are welcome to make a donation to the Gardendale Historical Society in honor of him. Donations may be mailed to PO Box 1044, Gardendale, AL 35071 or at https://paypal.me/GdaleHistoricalSoc?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US

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Kermit Edward Dooley

April 26, 1940 - December 29, 2023