Donald Dooley

Donald W. Dooley, age 63 of Harrogate, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, January 5, 2025.

Don was born on September 1, 1961 in Fort Thomas, KY to Dianna Dooley and the late Donald Dooley. He was a 1979 graduate of Lloyd High School in Erlanger, KY and a 2009 graduate of Tusculum University. Don was a retired school teacher with the Claiborne County School System, where he began his career as a special education aide at Livesay Middle School and went on to teach elementary education at Ellen Myers Primary School.

Don was saved at 16 years old and began a lifelong journey of dedication and service. He was called to student ministry and helping people find hope in Christ through their addiction recovery. He was an integral part of the leadership at New Heights Church, serving as an Elder for many years, and always believed in serving others to show them the love of Jesus. Don also served as a volunteer fire fighter for both the Bell County KY and Claiborne County TN Volunteer Fire Departments.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of 29 years, Lisa Walters Dooley; children, Daniel (Justine) Sharpe and Jenna (Logan) Harper; special grandson Carson Brooks; mother, Dianna Dooley; brother, Doug Dooley. Also surviving are sister and brother-in-law, Pam and Donnie Wilson; nephew, Ryan Dooley and nieces, Kimberly Miracle and Kelley Miracle.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held at New Heights Church in Middlesboro, KY on Sunday, January 12th. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM, with the service to follow.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the building fund at New Heights Church, PO Box 2747, Middlesboro, Kentucky 40965, to complete the construction of the youth facility due to Don’s dedication to student ministry across several decades.

Arnett & Steele is honored to serve the Dooley family.