Mr. Donald E. "Don" Dockery, 78, resident of Lake City, Fl, died a Shands At University of Florida Hospital in Gainesville, Florida, Monday, June 27, 2011 after an extended illness.

He was a native of Gastonia, North Carolina and had made his home in Lake City, Fl since 1955, coming here from Fayettville, North Carolina. He and his partners established WGRO Radio Station in 1960. After selling his interest he purchased the Lake City Advertiser and owned it for 49 years until 2005. He was very active in the community, serving as a Lake City Volunteer Fire Fighter, and a Lake City Commissioner for 4 years. He was active in his church as well, serving as a Vestry Member and Lay Reader at St. James Episcopal Church. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Cecile Dockery; sons, Michael (Pam) Dockery and Scott (Janna) Dockery; daughters, Donna (David) Vignes, Terri (Melvin) Bass and Amy (William) Shiver; grandchildren, Michael Dockery, Eric & Laura Cunningham, Eli & Jake Dockery and Donald & Clayton Shiver also survive.

Private graveside funeral services were conducted at 11 A.M. on Thursday, June 30, 2011 followed by a family memorial service at St. James Episcopal Church in Lake City, Fl.. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations in his memory be made to the St. James Episcopal Church Fund for "Restoration of the Historical Church" at 2423 SW Bascom Norris Drive, Lake City, Florida 32025. GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 South U.S. Highway 441, Lake City, Fl in charge of arrangements. Please sign the guest book at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.